Exporting a car to France

Hello Khaima,

So I tried hard to remember because I knew someone who did it but it was a bit fuzzy in my memory.

There are a lot of things to consider!

First of all, your situation: if you have been resident here for over a year and you own the car for more than six months (date of departure) and you come back to France to set your principal residence there, you are in the best position.
Custom taxes and VAT are exempt, the car is somehow part of your "move" and you will have only the hassle of registration.
For the latter, be cautious, it is not because the manufacturer is European that the vehicle is necessarily manufactured in Europe or that the model sold in Bahrain is approved in Europe.
To register the vehicle in France it must be received by the DRIRE. Either the model has already been received and with a certificate from the manufacturer, you can register straight in the "Prefecture". Otherwise, you need to make a isolated reception your vehicle will undergo a battery of tests before obtaining his approval.

Please be aware that in case of exemption from customs duties and VAT, you can't sell the vehicle before 12 months after importation.

If you do not meet the residency, possession and relocation requirements, it is much less interesting!
Custom taxes = (Price of vehicle + transportation cost) x 10%
Vehicle price + Custom taxes = VAT calculation base, VAT is 19.6%.

Here are some links if you want more:

French Customs
The DRIRE
The MFE (Maison des Français de l'étranger)
An article in a specialized magazine
Sorry links are in French only


I hope I have been complete enough... Good thinking!
And remember to keep us informed ^^

Cheers

Olivier

Thanks Olivier. By the way, I am French