How Long Does It Take to Import a Car from Japan to Australia?
Complete Timeline & Process Guide
Introduction
One of the most common questions when importing a vehicle from Japan is how long the process actually takes. While timelines can vary depending on the vehicle type, compliance pathway, shipping method, and inspection outcomes, most imports follow a predictable sequence of stages.
This guide explains each step of the import process, typical timeframes involved, and the factors that can speed up or delay delivery of a Japanese vehicle into Australia.
Typical Total Timeframe
On average, importing a car from Japan to Australia takes between
10 to 18 weeks from purchase to registration readiness. Some imports can be completed faster (around 8-10 weeks in optimal conditions), while others may take longer depending on complexity, compliance requirements, and potential delays.
The timeline is best understood by breaking the process into stages.
Stage 1 – Vehicle Selection & Purchase (1–2 weeks)
This stage includes:
- Vehicle sourcing (auction or dealer)
- Eligibility confirmation under SEVS, 25-Year Rule, or Personal Import pathways
- Pre-bid or pre-purchase assessment
- Auction bidding or purchase confirmation
Delays may occur if a specific model or condition is required, or if auction availability is limited. For rare models, this stage can take several weeks or even months.
Stage 2 – Import Approval via ROVER (2–6 weeks)
Before shipping, a Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) must be obtained through the ROVER (Road Vehicle Online Regulator) system managed by the Department of Infrastructure.
Timeframes depend on:
- Import pathway (SEVS, 25-Year Rule, Personal Import)
- Completeness and accuracy of documentation
- Government processing times and application volume
Standard processing time: Most applications are processed within
20 working days (approximately 4 weeks). However, complex cases or technical assessments may take up to
60 business days (approximately 12 weeks).
Important: It is recommended to apply for VIA
4-6 weeks before intended shipping to allow for processing time. Without a valid VIA, Australian Border Force will not release the vehicle from customs control, which can result in significant storage fees.
Stage 3 – Export Preparation in Japan (1–3 weeks)
Once VIA approval is received, the vehicle undergoes export preparation:
- De-registration in Japan
- Export documentation processing
- Thorough biosecurity cleaning (vehicles must be completely free of soil, seeds, plant debris, insects, and organic material)
- Asbestos testing and certification (required for vehicles manufactured before 2003)
- Transport to port
Vehicles requiring additional preparation, asbestos remediation, or DAFF-approved offshore treatment may take longer. Australia maintains extremely strict biosecurity standards, so thorough cleaning is essential to avoid delays upon arrival.
Stage 4 – Shipping to Australia (3–5 weeks)
Shipping time depends on:
- Shipping method (RoRo or container)
- Port of departure (typically Yokohama, Osaka, or Nagoya) and arrival port
- Vessel schedules and weather conditions
Typical shipping times:
RoRo shipping is generally more economical and frequently scheduled, while container shipping provides extra protection and is recommended for high-value or rare vehicles.
Stage 5 – Arrival, Biosecurity & Customs Clearance (1–3 weeks)
On arrival, the vehicle must clear:
- DAFF (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) biosecurity inspection
- Additional cleaning or treatment if contamination is found
- Customs clearance and documentation verification
- GST (10% of customs value) and Luxury Car Tax (33% on amounts exceeding AUD $80,567 for fuel-efficient vehicles or AUD $76,950 for other vehicles as of 2025-26)
- Import duty (typically zero for Japan-built vehicles under JAEPA – Japan-Australia Economic Partnership Agreement)
Delays can occur if:
- Biosecurity contamination is found (soil, seeds, insects)
- Additional documentation is required
- Asbestos issues are detected in pre-2003 vehicles
Australia has zero tolerance for asbestos, and older vehicles must provide manufacturer certificates or laboratory test reports proving asbestos-free status.
Stage 6 – Compliance & RAV Entry (2–4 weeks)
Compliance work depends on the vehicle type and import pathway:
- SEVS (Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme) vehicles
- RAWS (Registered Automotive Workshop Scheme) compliance
- 25-Year Rule vehicles (Concessional RAV entry)
- Modified or performance vehicles
- Electric or hybrid vehicles
This stage includes:
- Compliance inspections to meet Australian Design Rules (ADR)
- Modifications if required (lighting, emissions, safety equipment)
- Compliance certification
- Entry on the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV)
The RAV is Australia’s online database of vehicles that meet Road Vehicle Standards Act requirements. Most vehicles must be on the RAV before state registration is possible. Timeframes vary based on parts availability, workshop capacity, and the extent of modifications needed.
Stage 7 – State Registration (1–2 weeks)
Final registration typically includes:
- Roadworthy inspection (requirements vary by state/territory)
- Engineering certification (if required for modifications)
- Registration application and payment
- Number plates and CTP (Compulsory Third Party) insurance
State and territory requirements vary, which can affect timing. Each jurisdiction has its own registration process and roadworthy standards.
What Can Cause Delays?
Common factors that extend timelines include:
- Import approval delays (incomplete applications, technical assessments)
- Biosecurity contamination requiring cleaning or treatment
- Asbestos issues in pre-2003 vehicles
- Parts availability for compliance modifications
- Engineering complexity or extensive modifications
- Shipping schedule changes or weather-related delays
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation
- Peak season processing times
- Registered Automotive Workshop capacity and scheduling
How to Reduce Import Time
Timelines can often be reduced by:
- Confirming eligibility and compliance pathway before purchase
- Applying for ROVER approval 4-6 weeks before shipping
- Ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate
- Arranging thorough pre-export biosecurity cleaning
- Obtaining asbestos certification for pre-2003 vehicles before shipping
- Choosing appropriate shipping method and schedule
- Working with experienced import agents and compliance professionals
- Booking compliance workshops early (especially during peak seasons)
How Glam Groups Helps Keep Timelines on Track
Glam Groups manages the entire import process and helps minimise delays by:
- Conducting pre-purchase eligibility checks and compliance pathway assessment
- Managing ROVER applications and ensuring complete documentation
- Coordinating biosecurity-compliant shipping and cleaning processes
- Handling DAFF biosecurity and customs clearance processes
- Managing compliance, RAV entry, and registration steps
- Providing transparent cost breakdowns including GST, LCT (if applicable), and all associated fees
- Maintaining communication throughout the process to keep you informed
Conclusion
While importing a vehicle from Japan is not instant, understanding the process and typical timeframes helps set realistic expectations. Most imports take 10-18 weeks from purchase to final registration, with the ROVER approval, shipping, and compliance stages representing the most significant time components.
With proper planning, complete documentation, and professional management, most imports progress smoothly from purchase to registration. Key success factors include early ROVER application submission, thorough biosecurity cleaning, asbestos compliance for older vehicles, and working with experienced import specialists.
Glam Groups provides expert guidance and support throughout the full import timeline to ensure vehicles are delivered efficiently and in full compliance with Australian regulations.
Related guides: Total Landed Cost Guide | RoRo vs Container Shipping | DAFF Biosecurity | ADR Compliance | State Registration Requirements | Customs Duty & GST