IMPORT APPLICATIONS

Before importing a road vehicle into Australia, you must obtain an import approval.

According to Section 22 of the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (RVSA), importing a road vehicle without approval is an offense.

If your vehicle arrives in Australia without this approval, the Australian Border Force (ABF) will not release it from customs control. Storage costs can be significant, and all associated expenses are the importer’s responsibility.

HOW TO IMPORT YOUR VEHICLE

  • ✺

    DETERMINE IF THE VEHICLE IS ELIGIBLE FOR IMPORT INTO AUSTRALIA

  • ✺

    DETERMINE WHAT TYPE OF APROVAL YOU NEED

  • ✺

    WE OR YOU APPLY FOR YOUR VEHICLE IMPORT APPROVALS

  • ✺

    WAIT FOR PROCESSING TIME OF 10 - 20 BUSINESS DAYS FOR APPROVAL TO ARRIVE

  • ✺

    BOOK, PREPARE AND SHIP THE VEHICLE TO DESTINATION COUNTRY

  • ✺

    ONCE ARRIVRED, CLEAR VEHICLE IN AUSTRALIA AND SEND FOR COMPLIANCE INSPECTION.

WHAT TYPE OF APPROVAL DO YOU NEED?

Concessional RAV Entry Approvals

This approval allows specific road vehicles to be imported and listed on the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV), signifying import approval.

Eligible vehicles include:

  • Vehicles to be modified by a registered automotive workshop

  • Vehicles over 25 years old

  • Vehicles imported by individuals moving to Australia

  • Special purpose vehicles under the RVS legislation

  • Certain trailers

Each import type has specific criteria. For more details, visit the concessional RAV entry approvals webpage.

Non-RAV Entry Import Approvals

If a vehicle is not intended for use on Australian roads, or only under special circumstances, a non-RAV entry import approval may be appropriate. These vehicles can be approved for purposes such as:

  • Races and rallies

  • Public exhibitions

  • Film, TV, or advertising use

  • Testing or market evaluation

Significantly modified vehicles (like hot rods) or those imported temporarily may also qualify.

Reimportation Import Approvals

This approval permits owners to reimport a road vehicle they previously exported from Australia. The vehicle must be listed on the RAV or have an approval (such as an Australian identification plate or used import plate) under previous legislation (MVSA).

For more information, contact us here

✺ Frequently asked questions ✺

  • An import approval application takes generally takes 10 - 20 business days to arrive. In some circumstances, this can take longer.

  • Under special circumstances, you will be able to apply for a personal vehicle import application if the vehicle has been owned overseas for longer than 12 months. This will allow you to import a vehicle sold new here in Australia.

    Contact us for more information on Personal Imports

  • Contact us or refer to the RAV and SEVS list

    https://www.rover.infrastructure.gov.au/RAVPublicSearch/

    or

    https://www.rover.infrastructure.gov.au/PublishedApprovals/SEVApprovals/

  • Prices for this vary depending on what vehicle you are importing. This is included in your compliance fee if the vehicle needs to be complied.
    Contact us for further information on this.

  • This varies depending on the import application or what scheme the vehicle is imported under. Please call to confirm.

  • Compliance takes anywhere from 1 to 10 business days.