How Long Does It Take to Import a Car from Japan to Ireland?

It usually takes between 14 and 15 weeks to import a car from Japan to Ireland.

That's the short answer — but what actually happens during that time is what most people don't fully understand.

Importing a car isn't one long wait — it's a series of steps, each with its own timeline. Once you break it down, it becomes much clearer where the time goes, and where delays can happen.

The Full Timeline (Step by Step)

Sourcing and Buying the Car (1–2 weeks)

This is the first stage — finding the right car and securing it.

Depending on what you're looking for, this can happen quickly or take a bit longer. Some cars appear at auction every week, while others are rarer and take patience.

Once the right car comes up and is secured, things move fairly quickly from there.

Transport to Port and Export Processing (1–2 weeks)

After purchase, the car needs to be:

• transported to the port in Japan
• prepared for export
• inspected and documented

This part is mostly handled behind the scenes, but it's a necessary step before shipping.

Shipping from Japan to Ireland (approx. 60 days)

This is the longest part of the process.

Shipping times depend on:

• vessel schedules
• port routes
• time of year

Typically, you're looking at 50 to 65 days for the car to arrive in Ireland.

This is where most of the waiting happens.

Customs Clearance and Arrival (a few days to 1 week)

Once the car lands in Ireland:

• customs clearance is completed
• import duties (if applicable) are handled
• the car is released from port

This stage is usually fairly quick if everything is in order.

VRT and Registration (1–2 weeks)

The final step is registering the car in Ireland.

This includes:

• booking a VRT appointment
• inspection
• registration and number plates

Depending on appointment availability, this can take 1 to 2 weeks.

So, How Long Does It Really Take?

In most cases, the full process looks like 14 to 15 weeks from start to finish

Sometimes faster. Sometimes slightly longer.

But that's a realistic expectation if everything runs smoothly.

What Can Slow Things Down?

While the process is generally straightforward, delays can happen.

Common reasons include:

• waiting longer for the right car at auction
• shipping schedule gaps
• busy ports or seasonal delays
• VRT appointment availability

This is why setting the right expectations from the start is important.

The Key Thing Most People Get Wrong

People often assume importing a car is complicated.

In reality, it's just structured.

Once you understand the timeline, it stops feeling uncertain — and starts feeling predictable.

Final Thought

Importing a car from Japan to Ireland isn't instant — but it's also not as slow as most people expect.

And more importantly, you're not just waiting.

You're getting a better car, sourced properly, and delivered the right way.

Related Guides

See full cost breakdown: Cost to Import a Car from Japan to Ireland
Learn about hidden costs: Hidden Costs When Importing a Car from Japan to Ireland