Importing Cars from South Korea to the Netherlands

South Korea is a strong source of young, well-kept cars, and Rotterdam is Europe's largest port. Here is what to expect when importing to the Netherlands.

Last updated: 11 November 2026 · By Japonic Trade

Key facts

Customs duty

Standard 10% of customs value. Under the EU–South Korea trade agreement, duty on cars made in South Korea can be zero with proof of origin. Check the current rate with customs.

VAT

21%

Other tax

BPM (registration tax, based on CO2 emissions) and annual motor vehicle tax

Registration

RDW approval, then registration (kenteken)

Step by step

Buy and ship to a Dutch port. We buy the car through our Korean sources and ship it to Rotterdam or another Dutch port.
Customs clearance. Pay VAT (and duty where applicable) on the customs value. Keep the export documents, bill of lading, invoice and proof of origin.
Pay BPM. Dutch BPM depends mainly on CO2 emissions and the car's age; it is calculated by the Belastingdienst.
RDW inspection and approval. Korean-market cars usually lack EU type approval and need an individual RDW inspection.
Register and insure. Once approved you receive the registration number (kenteken) and can insure and drive the car.

Duties, taxes and homologation

Cars imported from outside the EU normally pay the EU customs duty on passenger cars (10% of the customs value) plus VAT at your country's rate, and some countries add their own registration tax. Under the EU–Japan trade agreement the duty on cars made in Japan is being phased out, so it may be lower or zero with proof of origin. Check the current rate with customs.

Japanese and Korean market cars usually have no EU certificate of conformity, so most need individual vehicle approval and a technical inspection before they can be registered.

Frequently asked questions

How much tax will I pay importing a car from South Korea to the Netherlands?

Expect 21% VAT on the customs value, customs duty (possibly 0% with proof of origin) and BPM, which depends on emissions and age. Ask us for an estimate for a specific car.

Can a Korean car be registered in the Netherlands?

Usually yes, after individual RDW approval. Ask the RDW or a local importer service for the current requirements for your specific car.

Figures on this page are indicative only. Rates, taxes and rules change often and may differ for your car, so none of them is guaranteed. Always confirm current duty, tax and approval requirements with your customs authority before you buy.

See what is available

Browse used cars from Japan in stock ready to ship, or learn how to read a Japanese auction sheet. Questions? Talk to us.