Buying or importing a car in Cyprus

From a dealer or a private seller, check that the name and the car on the registration certificate match the seller and the car in front of you, that the road tax is paid and the roadworthiness test (MOT, ΚΤΕΟ) is valid, and ask for the service history. For a used car, an inspection by a garage or an independent assessor before you pay is money well spent.

The change of owner is registered at the Road Transport Department; until it is, the car is still in the seller's name.

A car brought from abroad is cleared through Customs first, where the duties, VAT and registration tax that apply are worked out (the registration tax depends on the car's CO2 emissions), and is then registered at the Road Transport Department. If the car comes from outside the EU, ask the Department before you ship it whether it can be registered here.

Motor insurance is compulsory before the car is driven on the road. Compare what each policy covers, not only the price: third party only, fire and theft, or comprehensive.

Every car on the road needs a valid circulation licence, renewed every year by paying the road tax. It can be paid online; the Road Transport Department sets the amount for each car.

Cars must pass a roadworthiness test at an approved test centre at set intervals, which depend on the car's age. A car that fails is repaired and tested again.

Regular servicing, tyres and parts keep the car safe and help it pass the test. Cars drive on the left in Cyprus.