Buying a car in Andorra and importing it to Spain or France

The price is often lower, because Andorra’s sales tax (IGI) is lower than VAT in Spain or France. But if you take the car to your country you will pay import taxes there, so the saving can shrink or disappear. Always compare the total cost, including taxes and paperwork.

Yes, anyone can buy one. What changes is where it is registered: generally only residents and Andorran companies can register a car in Andorra, so if you live abroad you would normally import it and register it in your country.

A dealership usually offers a warranty, checks the car before selling it and helps with the paperwork. A private seller may be cheaper, but there is no commercial warranty, so check the car and its documents carefully before paying.

The invoice or sale contract, the registration certificate, the vehicle’s technical documents, a valid ITV inspection and, if available, the service history. Also check that the car has no outstanding finance or debts.

Sign a sale contract, pay by bank transfer to an account in the seller’s name and never pay in advance for a car you have not seen. Be wary of prices far below the market.

Andorra is not in the European Union, so the car is imported: it is declared at customs when entering Spain and import taxes are paid, mainly VAT. Then it needs an import ITV inspection and registration with the DGT, paying the registration tax where it applies.

Generally yes: Spanish VAT is paid at customs when the car is imported. In some cases, such as moving your residence, exemptions may apply. Check your case with the Agencia Tributaria.

It may apply, since in Spain this tax depends on the car’s CO₂ emissions; low-emission cars can be exempt. Check the amount before you buy.

The car must be declared at French customs and import VAT (TVA) paid. Customs issues a clearance certificate (form 846 A), which you need to register the car in France through the ANTS. Depending on the car’s emissions, the malus écologique may apply.

A visitor can drive an Andorran-registered car temporarily, but if you live in Spain or France you must register it there within the period set by the rules.

Yes. No car can be driven without insurance, so arrange cover before you collect it, including for the journey to your country.

Agree with the seller how the car will be moved before you pay: driving it with valid registration and insurance, or using a transport company. Many Andorran dealerships regularly sell to buyers from Spain and France and can advise you.