Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) – Complete Guide

Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) – Complete Guide

Before a vehicle leaves Japan for Australia, you must obtain a Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) from the Department of Infrastructure. Without it, your car can be refused entry at the border. This page explains what a VIA is, how to apply through the ROVER system, and how Glam Groups can manage it for you.

What Is a Vehicle Import Approval?

A VIA is the government authorisation that lets a vehicle enter Australia legally. It confirms that the vehicle meets an approved import pathway and that the importer has provided the required documentation via the ROVER online system.

Why Is a VIA Important?

  • Customs requirement: Australian Border Force will not release a vehicle without a valid VIA.
  • Compliance safeguard: Ensures the car can be brought up to Australian Design Rules (ADRs).
  • Legal protection: Shipping without a VIA can lead to seizure or re-export at your cost.

How to Apply for a Vehicle Import Approval

You apply for VIA entirely online through the ROVER system.

Step 1 – Choose Your Import Pathway

  • SEVS (Specialist & Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme) – for unique/rare models not sold new in Australia.
  • 25-year rule – vehicles 25 years or older are generally eligible without SEVS.
  • Personal Import Scheme – if you owned and used the car overseas for 12+ months.

Step 2 – Prepare Your Documentation

  • Proof of identity (passport/driver licence)
  • Purchase invoice or auction sheet
  • Japanese de-registration/export certificate
  • Evidence of eligibility (e.g., SEVS eligibility reference)

Step 3 – Submit in ROVER

  • Create/log in to your ROVER account.
  • Upload documents and complete the application.
  • Pay the application fee (typically around AUD $50).

Step 4 – Processing & Approval

  • Typical processing time: 2–4 weeks (longer if documents are incomplete).
  • On approval, you’ll receive a digital VIA. Keep it for shipping and customs.

Tip: Confirm eligibility first to avoid delays. Start with our Import Eligibility Guide.

Common Mistakes That Delay VIA Approval

  • Applying under the wrong pathway (e.g., ineligible model for SEVS)
  • Missing or mismatched documents (invoice, de-reg, ID)
  • Incorrect details or incomplete application in ROVER

What Happens After You Get Your VIA?

  1. Vehicle is shipped from Japan to Australia.
  2. Arrival: customs & quarantine clearance (duties/GST, biosecurity checks).
  3. ADR compliance at an approved workshop (lights, safety, emissions as required).
  4. Final state registration (e.g., VICRoads in Victoria) and delivery.

Why Use Glam Groups for VIA?

  • 22+ years importing JDM vehicles to Australia
  • End-to-end handling: eligibility, VIA, shipping, customs, ADR compliance, registration
  • Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW) & Testing Facility approvals
  • 1,000+ vehicles successfully imported for clients nationwide

VIA – Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a VIA cost?

The government application fee is typically around AUD $50. Workshop/admin fees are separate.

How long does VIA approval take?

Most approvals take 2–4 weeks, but delays happen if documents are missing or if case volumes spike.

Can I ship my car before the VIA is approved?

No. Always wait for the official approval. Shipping without a VIA risks refusal at the border and expensive re-export.

Do all imported cars need a VIA?

Yes. Every vehicle entering Australia requires an import approval under the applicable pathway.

Start Your Import Today

Want us to handle the VIA process for you? Call (03) 9303 7252 or request a free eligibility check below.