Country Guide

Importing a Car from Germany to Poland

Poland is the largest importer of German used cars in Europe. Over 800,000 used vehicles are imported into Poland annually, with the majority coming from Germany. The price difference, combined with the perceived higher quality of German-maintained vehicles, makes this route extremely popular among Polish buyers.

Check a VIN Before You Buy

Key Import Facts: Germany to Poland

VAT Rate

23%

Registration Tax

3.1% of value (excise) + PLN 256 registration

Technical Inspection

Przeglad techniczny (technical inspection)

PLN 162 (approx. EUR 37)

Typical Savings

20-35% compared to Polish market prices

Import Duties

3.1% (up to 2,000 cc) or 18.6% (over 2,000 cc)

Currency

PLN

Why Polish Buyers Choose German Cars

German used cars are typically EUR 2,000 to EUR 8,000 cheaper than equivalent vehicles on the Polish market. Germany's proximity makes transport easy and affordable. Many Polish-speaking dealers operate in Germany, and mobile.de offers a Polish language version.

Most Popular Models Imported to Poland

BMW 3 SeriesVW GolfAudi A4Mercedes C-ClassOpel Astra

Import Duties and Taxes

No customs duty within EU. Excise tax of 3.1% on vehicles with engines up to 2,000 cc; 18.6% for engines over 2,000 cc.

Cost Summary

Customs Duty (EU)EUR 0 (free movement)

Registration / Excise Tax3.1% (up to 2,000 cc) or 18.6% (over 2,000 cc)

Technical InspectionPLN 162 (approx. EUR 37)

VIN Check (recommended)EUR 8.90

Required Documents

Make sure you have all the following documents when importing a car from Germany to Poland:

German Fahrzeugbrief (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil II)

German Fahrzeugschein (Zulassungsbescheinigung Teil I)

Kaufvertrag (purchase contract) — with Polish translation

Proof of valid insurance (OC insurance)

Positive technical inspection result

Proof of excise duty payment

Customs form (if applicable)

Valid ID / passport

Registration Process in Poland

Once you have the vehicle in Poland, follow these steps to complete the registration at Starostwo Powiatowe (County Office):

Pay excise tax (akcyza) at your local customs office within 30 days of import

Obtain vehicle insurance (OC polisa) from a Polish insurer

Pass technical inspection (przeglad techniczny) at an authorized station

Submit all documents to the Starostwo Powiatowe

Receive Polish registration plates and registration certificate (dowod rejestracyjny)

Tips for Polish Buyers

Check the Centralnej Ewidencji Pojazdow (CEPiK) database for vehicle history in Poland

Budget for the excise tax — it's 18.6% for engines over 2.0L, which can be substantial

Get a VIN check before traveling to Germany to verify odometer and accident history

Many German dealers near the Polish border (Berlin, Frankfurt/Oder) specialize in export sales

You have 30 days to register the vehicle after importing it to Poland

Check the Vehicle Before You Buy

Before importing a car from Germany to Poland, run a comprehensive VIN check. Verify accident history, odometer readings, theft status, and original specifications. The free check already reveals key specs and safety recalls.

Free VIN Check All Import Guides

Importing to Poland — FAQ

How much excise tax do I pay when importing a car from Germany to Poland?

The excise tax (akcyza) depends on engine displacement. For engines up to 2,000 cc, the rate is 3.1% of the vehicle's value. For engines over 2,000 cc, the rate jumps to 18.6%. This is calculated based on the transaction price or the market value, whichever is higher. You must pay this within 30 days of importing the vehicle.

How long do I have to register a German car in Poland?

You have 30 calendar days from the date of import to register the vehicle at your local Starostwo Powiatowe (County Office). Driving an unregistered vehicle after this period can result in fines. During the 30-day period, you can use the German export plates if still valid.

Do I need to translate the German documents?

Yes, the Kaufvertrag (purchase contract) should be translated into Polish by a sworn translator (tlumacz przysiegly). The vehicle documents (Fahrzeugbrief and Fahrzeugschein) are usually accepted in their original German form by the registration office, but some offices may request translations.

Can I import a car with a large engine without paying high excise tax?

The 18.6% excise rate applies to all vehicles with engines over 2,000 cc. There are no exemptions for EU transfers. This is why most Polish imports from Germany have engines of 2.0L or smaller. For larger engines, the excise tax alone can add EUR 2,000-10,000+ to the total cost.