If you’re a foreign national planning to purchase or import a vehicle in Luxembourg, it’s essential to understand the legal procedures involved. In this article, we’ll cover the steps involved in buying or importing a car in Luxembourg, along with the necessary paperwork and contact details of relevant government departments.
Buying a New or Used Car in Luxembourg
Buying a new or used car in Luxembourg follows a similar process to most other countries. The first step is to find a reputable dealership or private seller. You can browse local classifieds websites or visit authorized car dealerships.
Required Documents for Buying a Car in Luxembourg
Foreign nationals need to provide the following documents to buy a car in Luxembourg:
- Passport
- Residence Permit or Visa
- Luxembourgish Driver’s License
- Vehicle Registration Certificate
- Proof of Insurance
- Technical Inspection Certificate
- Sales Contract
Registering the Vehicle
Once you’ve purchased the car, you need to register it with the National Society of Automotive Traffic (SNCA). The registration process involves providing the following documents:
- Sales Contract
- Technical Inspection Certificate
- Vehicle Registration Certificate
- Proof of Insurance
- Proof of Identity
- Proof of Residence
- Proof of Payment of Vehicle Tax
After submitting the necessary documents, the SNCA will issue you with Luxembourgish registration plates and a vehicle registration certificate.
Importing a Vehicle in Luxembourg
If you’re planning to import a vehicle to Luxembourg, there are specific procedures and requirements to follow.
Required Documents for Importing a Vehicle
Foreign nationals need to provide the following documents to import a car to Luxembourg:
- Passport
- Residence Permit or Visa
- Luxembourgish Driver’s License
- Vehicle purchase invoice
- Certificate of Conformity (COC)
- Technical Inspection Certificate
- Customs Declaration
- Insurance Policy
- Proof of Payment of Vehicle Tax
Step-by-Step Guide to Importing a Vehicle
Obtain a Certificate of Conformity (COC) from the manufacturer.
Obtain a Vehicle Purchase Invoice from the seller.
Obtain a Technical Inspection Certificate from a licensed inspection center.
Obtain a Customs Declaration from the Customs Office.
Obtain an Insurance Policy from an approved insurance company.
Pay the Vehicle Tax at the Tax Office.
Register the Vehicle with the SNCA. Provide all the necessary documents, including the Vehicle Purchase Invoice, COC, Technical Inspection Certificate, Customs Declaration, Insurance Policy, and proof of payment of the Vehicle Tax.
The SNCA will issue Luxembourgish registration plates and a Vehicle Registration Certificate.
Contact Details of Relevant Government Departments
If you need assistance with the import process, you can contact the following Luxembourgish government departments:
- Customs Office: https://douanes.public.lu/
- National Society of Automotive Traffic (SNCA): https://snca.public.lu/en.html
Selling a Car in Luxembourg
If you’re planning to sell a car in Luxembourg, there are specific procedures and paperwork to follow.
Required Documents for Selling a Car in Luxembourg
When selling a car in Luxembourg, you need to provide the following documents:
- Vehicle Registration Certificate
- Technical Inspection Certificate
- Sales Contract
- Insurance Policy
Step-by-Step Guide to Selling a Car
Obtain a Technical Inspection Certificate from a licensed inspection center.
Obtain an Insurance Policy from an approved insurance company.
Complete a Sales Contract with the buyer.
Provide the buyer with the Vehicle Registration Certificate, Technical Inspection Certificate, and Insurance Policy.
The buyer needs to register the vehicle with the SNCA and obtain Luxembourgish registration plates.
Submit a Notice of Transfer of Ownership to the SNCA within 5 days of the sale.