Why so many Portuguese buyers shop in Central Europe
Portugal has one of the highest car import rates in the EU. The combination of a relatively small domestic used-car market, higher prices compared to Germany or Belgium, and a large diaspora returning from abroad means that thousands of vehicles make the journey to Portugal every year. Germany alone accounts for a significant share of the supply, with Belgium, the Netherlands, and France also popular sourcing markets.
The process is entirely legal and, done correctly, cost-effective. But it requires careful attention to documentation — and the Certificate of Conformity (COC) sits at the centre of it all.
Documents you need before leaving the source country
- Original vehicle invoice or purchase contract
- Foreign vehicle registration certificate (the equivalent of the Portuguese Documento Único Automóvel)
- Certificate of Conformity (COC) issued by the manufacturer
- Proof of de-registration (cancellation of plates) in the origin country — required in Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium
- Identity documents of buyer and seller
- Transport or shipping documents if the vehicle is transported rather than driven
The COC is particularly important here because some source countries do not automatically provide it with the sale. German dealers, for example, often retain it unless specifically requested. Always ask for it before finalising the purchase — or order it directly from COC-Express.eu using the VIN.
Arriving in Portugal: the customs step
Even within the EU, importing a vehicle is not completely free of administrative requirements. Once the vehicle arrives in Portugal, you must submit a Declaração Aduaneira de Veículo (DAV) to Portuguese customs. This declaration is used to calculate ISV and to officially notify the authorities that the vehicle has entered Portuguese territory.
The DAV must be submitted within 20 days of the vehicle’s arrival if it is self-driven across the border, or within 20 days of release from customs if it was transported. Missing this deadline results in fines.
Calculating your total import cost
Before committing to a purchase, it is essential to estimate the full cost of bringing the vehicle to Portugal. The main components are:
| Cost item | Notes |
| Purchase price | Negotiated with seller |
| Transport (if applicable) | Road transport from Germany ~450€–1,200€ |
| ISV | Based on engine size and $\text{CO}_2$ — can range from 500€ to 10,000€+ |
| DAV filing fee | Typically 150€–300€ via a customs agent |
| IMT registration fee | Fixed fee, varies by vehicle age |
| COC (if not included) | Varies by brand — check coc-express.eu |
| Vehicle inspection (IPO) | Mandatory pre-registration inspection |
A key point: ISV can make or break the financial case for an import. Using the correct $\text{CO}_2$ figure from the COC — especially for newer vehicles with WLTP data — is the single most effective way to minimise this cost legally.
The IMT registration process
Once customs duties are settled, the vehicle must be registered with the IMT. This involves:
- Submitting the COC and DAV along with proof of ISV payment
- Passing the IPO (Inspecção Periódica Obrigatória) — a vehicle roadworthiness test
- Providing proof of valid insurance (at least third-party liability)
- Paying the IMT registration fee
The IMT will then issue a Portuguese Documento Único Automóvel and assign a Portuguese licence plate. The whole registration step typically takes 5 to 15 working days once all documents are submitted correctly.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Buying without a COC and only realising the problem at customs — always request or order the COC before completing the purchase
- Using an incorrect or out-of-date $\text{CO}_2$ figure — insist on the manufacturer’s original COC, not a dealer estimate
- Forgetting to request de-registration in the origin country — this can create legal issues with dual registration
- Underestimating the ISV on high-displacement or high-emission vehicles — run the numbers before buying
- Leaving the vehicle uninsured during transport — get temporary transit insurance
Source country quick comparison
| Country | Key notes for Portuguese buyers |
| Germany | Large supply, transparent history via Fahrzeugbrief. Dealers may not include COC automatically. |
| Belgium | Competitive prices, bilingual market. De-registration required. |
| Netherlands | Low mileage vehicles common. Full de-registration (export certificate) required. |
| France | French brands well represented. Certificat de cession replaces invoice. |
| Spain | Close proximity reduces transport cost. Shared left-hand traffic simplifies logistics. |
Planning to import a car from Europe? Order your COC in advance and avoid delays at customs. Start at coc-express.eu
