Complete Guide — Updated for 2026. Everything you need to know about importing your own vehicle to Australia under the Personal Import Scheme.
Overview
Australia has three main pathways for importing a used vehicle from overseas: the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS), the 25-Year Rule (concessional RAV entry), and the Personal Import Scheme. While SEVS and the 25-Year Rule attract more attention, the Personal Import Scheme is an important and often overlooked pathway for individuals relocating to Australia or returning from extended periods abroad.
Unlike SEVS, the vehicle does not need to appear on any approved register. Unlike the 25-Year Rule, there is no minimum vehicle age. Instead, the scheme is built around the individual — not the vehicle. Eligibility depends entirely on the applicant’s documented relationship with the vehicle through ownership and personal use prior to arriving in Australia.
This guide covers exactly who qualifies, what vehicles are eligible, the ROVER application process, all applicable costs for 2025–26, and the compliance steps required after arrival. For a full overview of all import pathways, see our importing schemes and eligibility guide.
What Is the Personal Import Scheme?
The Personal Import Scheme (sometimes referred to as the Personal Import Concession) is an import pathway under the Road Vehicle Standards Act 2018 (RVSA) that allows eligible individuals to bring a vehicle they have personally owned and used overseas into Australia.
The scheme is administered by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts (DITRDCA) through the ROVER online portal at rover.infrastructure.gov.au. For full details on the ROVER application process, see our Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) guide.
The Personal Import Scheme is unique among Australia’s import pathways because eligibility is determined by the individual applicant’s circumstances, not by the vehicle’s model, age, or presence on any approved register. A vehicle that would not be eligible under SEVS or the 25-Year Rule may still be imported under this scheme — provided the applicant can satisfy all personal eligibility criteria.
Who Qualifies for the Personal Import Scheme?
To be eligible, an applicant must satisfy all of the following requirements simultaneously. Partial satisfaction of the criteria is not sufficient.
1. Residency Requirement
The applicant must have been residing overseas and intending to live in Australia indefinitely. The scheme is designed for three primary groups:
- Australian citizens or permanent residents returning from an extended period of living abroad.
- Foreign nationals who have been granted permanent residency and are migrating to Australia.
- Australians who have been working, studying, or living overseas and are now returning permanently.
The ROVER application requires you to provide your date of birth and the date you arrived (or intend to arrive) in Australia to live here indefinitely, supported by evidence such as flight records or immigration documentation.
2. Ownership Requirement
The applicant must have owned the vehicle for a continuous period of at least 12 months prior to importing it into Australia. Ownership must be documented and verifiable through official records.
Acceptable Evidence of Ownership
- Vehicle registration documents in the applicant’s name (from the country of prior residence).
- Original purchase receipt or sale contract.
- Insurance documents naming the applicant as the insured owner.
- Finance or lease agreements, where applicable.
- Title or certificate of ownership documents (particularly relevant for US, UK, and European vehicles).
The 12-month ownership period must be continuous and documented. Gaps in registration, insurance lapses, or a change of registered owner during the 12-month period can invalidate eligibility. Ensure your documentation clearly establishes unbroken ownership throughout the required period.
3. Use Requirement
The vehicle must have been personally used overseas by the applicant for at least 12 months. ‘Use’ means the vehicle was regularly operated by the applicant as a road vehicle — not simply stored, garaged, or parked. The department may request evidence of actual use.
Acceptable Evidence of Personal Use
- Vehicle service and maintenance records dated during the overseas period.
- Fuel receipts, parking records, or toll records.
- Photographs of the vehicle in use, with date and location metadata.
- Statutory declaration by the applicant confirming personal use, countersigned by a qualified witness.
- Odometer readings over the relevant period, cross-referenced with service records.
4. Import Timing Requirement
The vehicle must be shipped to Australia within 12 months of the applicant’s arrival in Australia as a permanent resident or returning resident. Vehicles shipped outside this 12-month window will generally not qualify under the Personal Import Scheme.
The 12-month window begins from your date of arrival in Australia, not from when you apply for ROVER approval. Factor in ROVER application processing time (up to 60 business days in complex cases, typically 15–20 business days for standard applications), shipping lead times, and biosecurity clearance when planning your import. Starting the ROVER application process 45–60 days before your intended shipping date is strongly recommended.
What Vehicles Are Eligible?
Unlike SEVS, there is no approved vehicle list or register for the Personal Import Scheme. In principle, any road vehicle type can be imported provided the applicant meets all personal eligibility criteria. However, this does not mean any vehicle can be registered without restriction.
Eligible Vehicle Types
The scheme is broad in scope and commonly used to import:
- Passenger cars and sedans.
- SUVs and four-wheel drive vehicles.
- Vans, people movers, and minibuses.
- Performance and sports vehicles.
- Classic and vintage vehicles.
- Commercial vehicles (subject to additional ADR compliance).
ADR Compliance Still Applies
Regardless of the import pathway, all vehicles must be assessed for compliance with Australian Design Rules (ADRs) by a Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW) before they can be registered for road use. A Vehicle Import Approval under the Personal Import Scheme does not exempt the vehicle from ADR compliance obligations. See our full guide on ADR compliance for imported vehicles in Australia.
Some vehicles — particularly those with extensive right-hand drive conversion requirements, non-standard safety systems, or structural issues — may prove impractical or prohibitively expensive to comply with ADRs. Structurally damaged vehicles cannot receive a Used Import Plate under any pathway. Always have your intended vehicle assessed by a licensed RAW before committing to the import, to confirm it can be economically complied for Australian registration.
How to Apply — The ROVER Process
All vehicle import applications are managed through the ROVER portal at rover.infrastructure.gov.au. This is the sole official channel — applications cannot be submitted by post, email, or in person. For a complete step-by-step walkthrough of the full import process, see our step-by-step guide to importing a car from Japan to Australia.
| Stage | Action & Key Notes |
|---|---|
| Step 1 — Gather Documentation | Collect all required evidence: overseas ownership documents (registration, purchase contract, insurance), evidence of personal use (service records, receipts, photos), proof of Australian arrival/residency, and personal identification. |
| Step 2 — Create a ROVER Account | Register at rover.infrastructure.gov.au. Provide a valid email address, set up multi-factor authentication, and submit a minimum of 100 points of identification for departmental verification. |
| Step 3 — Select the Correct Pathway | Within ROVER, select the Personal Import application type. Choosing the wrong pathway will delay your application and require resubmission. If unsure, consult an experienced import professional before applying. |
| Step 4 — Complete and Submit the Application | Fill in all required vehicle details and upload your supporting documents. ROVER allows you to save a draft and return to it at any time before submission. Draft applications not submitted within 12 months are automatically deleted. |
| Step 5 — Pay the Application Fee | The ROVER application fee is currently approximately AUD $50. Payment is made online through ROVER via Visa or Mastercard. Applications are not progressed until payment is confirmed. |
| Step 6 — Await Assessment | Standard processing time is 15–20 business days for complete applications. Complex cases or incomplete documentation can extend this to up to 60 business days. Track your application status through your ROVER account. |
| Step 7 — Receive Your Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) | If approved, you will receive a digital VIA by email. This document is required by your shipping company and by the Australian Border Force. It is valid for 12 months from the date of issue and must be used within that period. |
| Step 8 — Arrange Shipping | Organise transport from your country of origin to Australia using RoRo or container shipping. Ensure the vehicle is cleaned to Australian biosecurity standards before loading. |
| Step 9 — Biosecurity & Customs Clearance | Lodge an import declaration with the Australian Border Force on arrival. Pay applicable GST and duty. Pass biosecurity inspection by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF). See our biosecurity and quarantine guide for full requirements. |
| Step 10 — ADR Compliance & Registration | Deliver the vehicle to an approved Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW) for ADR assessment. Once compliant, obtain a compliance plate, then complete state registration. |
A licensed agent, shipping company, or import professional can assist with your ROVER application or submit it on your behalf. However, the importer remains legally responsible for the accuracy of all information provided. Errors or false declarations can result in approval refusal or cancellation.
Costs — 2025–26 Reference
Importing a vehicle under the Personal Import Scheme involves the same foundational cost components as any other import pathway. For a full breakdown of all cost components, see our total landed cost guide. The following table provides current reference ranges.
| Cost Component | 2025–26 Notes |
|---|---|
| ROVER Application Fee | Approximately AUD $50. Paid online through ROVER via Visa or Mastercard. Non-refundable. |
| International Freight — RoRo | AUD $1,500–$2,500 (Japan/Asia). Higher for US, UK, and European origins. Vehicle must be in drivable condition. |
| International Freight — Container | AUD $3,000–$4,500 (Japan/Asia); $4,000–$6,500+ (US/UK/Europe). Provides greater protection for rare or high-value vehicles. See our RoRo vs container shipping guide to choose the right method. |
| Marine Insurance | AUD $200–$500 depending on vehicle value and shipping distance. Strongly recommended — the shipping company does not cover damage or loss in transit. |
| Import Duty (Customs Duty) | Generally 5% of the vehicle’s customs value. Concessions may apply: vehicles from Japan may qualify for a duty exemption under JAEPA; check with your customs broker. Duty-free concessions for qualifying personal imports may be available under Schedule 4 of the Customs Tariff Act 1995 — confirm eligibility with a licensed customs broker. |
| GST | 10% applied to the total of: customs value + import duty + international freight + insurance. GST is payable regardless of duty-free status or import pathway. See our guide on understanding customs duty and GST on imported cars. |
| Luxury Car Tax (LCT) | 33% on the GST-inclusive value exceeding the 2025–26 threshold: AUD $80,567 (standard vehicles) or AUD $91,387 (fuel-efficient vehicles consuming no more than 3.5L/100km). From 1 July 2025, the fuel-efficient threshold was tightened from 7.0L/100km to 3.5L/100km, which removes many conventional hybrids from the higher threshold. |
| Asbestos Testing | Required for vehicles manufactured before approximately 2004. Testing by an accredited laboratory and certification must be arranged before or at time of shipping. Cost varies by country and laboratory. |
| Biosecurity & Quarantine Inspection | AUD $400–$800 for standard inspection. Vehicles that fail initial inspection and require cleaning or treatment will incur additional costs. |
| ADR Compliance & Modifications (RAW) | AUD $2,000–$8,000+ depending on vehicle type, age, origin, and modifications required. Vehicles from countries with similar safety standards (e.g., Japan, UK) typically require less modification than those from markets with different standards. |
| State Registration | AUD $800–$1,500 depending on state and vehicle specifications. Stamp duty, CTP insurance, and registration fees vary by jurisdiction. See our state registration requirements guide for a state-by-state breakdown. |
| Contingency Buffer | Always budget an additional 10–15% of total estimated cost for currency fluctuations, unexpected compliance requirements, or shipping delays. |
How the Personal Import Scheme Compares
Understanding how the Personal Import Scheme differs from the other two primary import pathways helps identify whether it is the right approach for your circumstances. For a detailed overview of all pathways, see our import eligibility guide.
| Feature | Personal Import Scheme | SEVS / 25-Year Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle on approved register required? | No — any road vehicle is in principle eligible | SEVS: Yes (must be on SEVS Register) | 25-Year Rule: No |
| Vehicle age requirement? | None | SEVS: None (but must be under 25 years or not locally sold) | 25-Year Rule: 25+ years from manufacture date |
| Personal ownership required? | Yes — minimum 12 continuous months | No — vehicle can be purchased specifically to import |
| Personal use required? | Yes — must have been regularly used by applicant overseas | No |
| 12-month import window? | Yes — must ship within 12 months of arrival in Australia | No fixed window |
| ADR compliance required? | Yes — assessed by a licensed RAW | SEVS: Mandatory RAW | 25-Year Rule: Simplified / not required to meet modern ADRs |
| Sale restriction after import? | None — vehicle can be sold once complied and registered | None |
| Who typically uses this pathway? | Returning Australian residents, new permanent migrants | SEVS: Enthusiasts, dealers, collectors | 25-Year Rule: Classic vehicle buyers, collectors |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
For a full breakdown of import mistakes across all pathways, see our guide on common mistakes when importing from Japan to Australia.
| Common Mistake | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Shipping before ROVER approval is issued | A vehicle cannot legally enter Australia without a valid VIA. Shipping before approval risks vehicle detention at the port, storage fees, and potential forced re-export or destruction. |
| Insufficient evidence of overseas use | Service records, fuel receipts, dated photographs, and a statutory declaration of use are all important. Gaps in evidence are one of the most common reasons for applications being queried or refused. |
| Missing the 12-month import window | The clock starts from your arrival date in Australia, not from your application date. Delays in ROVER processing, shipping, or compliance can consume this window unexpectedly. |
| Underestimating ADR compliance costs | Some vehicles require significant modifications to meet Australian standards — particularly those from countries with different road or safety standards. Always obtain a compliance assessment from a licensed RAW before finalising the import. |
| Overlooking LCT on higher-value vehicles | LCT of 33% applies to values above AUD $80,567 (standard) or $91,387 (fuel-efficient, ≤3.5L/100km). On a $100,000 vehicle, LCT alone can add over $6,500 to your landed cost. |
| Not arranging marine insurance | The shipping company does not cover loss or damage to vehicles in transit. Marine insurance is essential for all shipments. |
| Assuming the VIA guarantees registration | A Vehicle Import Approval confirms the vehicle may be imported under the approved pathway. It does not confirm the vehicle can be registered for road use in Australia, does not remove biosecurity requirements, and does not determine the taxes payable. |
| Using the wrong ROVER pathway | Selecting an incorrect pathway in ROVER (e.g., SEVS instead of Personal Import) will result in assessment failure and require resubmission, adding weeks of delay. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I import any vehicle under the Personal Import Scheme?
In principle, any road vehicle can be imported provided you meet the personal eligibility criteria. However, the vehicle must still be assessed for ADR compliance before it can be registered. Vehicles that cannot practically meet ADR requirements may still be refused registration even after import approval is granted.
How long do I need to have owned the vehicle?
A minimum of 12 continuous months of documented personal ownership and use is required. The 12-month period must be completed overseas, prior to importing the vehicle into Australia.
Can I sell the vehicle after importing it under this scheme?
Yes. There is no restriction on selling the vehicle after it has been complied and registered in Australia. Unlike some temporary import pathways, the Personal Import Scheme places no ongoing ownership condition on the importer once the vehicle is registered.
Do I still pay import duty and GST?
GST (10%) is payable on all imported vehicles regardless of pathway. Import duty (5%) may also apply, though qualifying personal imports may be eligible for a concession under Schedule 4 of the Customs Tariff Act 1995. See our guide on customs duty and GST on imported cars and confirm your specific duty position with a licensed customs broker before shipping.
Can I claim a duty-free concession on my vehicle?
Certain categories of personal imports — including returning Australian residents and new permanent migrants — may qualify for duty-free concessions under specific Schedule 4 items in the Customs Tariff Act 1995. These concessions have strict eligibility criteria and do not remove GST or LCT obligations. Always confirm eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
How long does ROVER approval take?
Standard applications typically take 15–20 business days. Complex cases or incomplete submissions can extend this to up to 60 business days. Applications are not progressed until the fee is paid. Always apply at least 45–60 days before your intended shipping date. See our Vehicle Import Approval guide for full details.
Can a third party lodge my ROVER application?
Yes. A licensed agent or import professional can submit the ROVER application on your behalf. However, you remain legally responsible for the accuracy of all information provided.
Does the VIA have an expiry date?
Yes. A Vehicle Import Approval is typically valid for 12 months from the date of issue. The vehicle must be shipped and arrive in Australia within this period.
Does a VIA guarantee my vehicle can be registered?
No. A VIA confirms the vehicle may be imported under the approved pathway. It does not exempt the vehicle from ADR compliance, biosecurity inspection, or tax obligations, and it does not guarantee that the vehicle will meet state registration requirements.
What happens if my vehicle fails biosecurity inspection?
The vehicle will be placed in supervised storage and directed for treatment, cleaning, or quarantine at the importer’s expense. If the vehicle cannot be made biosecurity compliant, it may be re-exported or destroyed. Australia has zero tolerance for asbestos, soil, plant material, seeds, and live pests. See our biosecurity and quarantine guide for full requirements.
How Glam Groups Can Help
Glam Groups has been managing vehicle imports and compliance in Melbourne since 2002. As an approved Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW) and authorised ADR testing facility, we assist Personal Import clients at every stage — from ROVER application guidance and biosecurity preparation through to full ADR compliance assessment and state registration.
Approved RAW • ADR Testing Facility • LMCT 10210 • Campbellfield, Melbourne
Contact our team today to discuss your personal import requirements.
Disclaimer: Import regulations, duty rates, LCT thresholds, and eligibility criteria are subject to change. This guide reflects requirements current as of April 2026. Always verify current requirements via rover.infrastructure.gov.au and consult a licensed customs broker or RAW-accredited workshop before shipping.