CARLUX HUB / GUIDES & SERVICES

Documents & registration

A practical document checklist for bringing a vehicle to mainland Spain, with separate EU and non-EU paths and official sources.

Editorial review · 2026-10-16 · Mainland Spain

Checklist before payment and collection

For a purchase destined for mainland Spain. Use this as a preparation list: origin, residence, owner and tax circumstances determine the final application.

Buyer identity and future keeper details; authorisation if someone acts for you.
Invoice or contract identifying seller, buyer, VIN, price and tax regime.
Original foreign registration documents and applicable deregistration/export records.
CoC or acceptable alternative technical documentation for ITV; consult first for modifications or absent European approval.
Collection and delivery receipt, condition photos and transport terms.
Spanish ITV sheet; purchase tax evidence (VAT or ITP as applicable), registration tax (576, 06 or 05 as appropriate) and municipal IVTM, or applicable exemption/non-liability evidence.
DGT application and fee evidence; then registration certificate, plates and road insurance.

Checkboxes are a temporary aid; they are not saved or submitted.

EU and non-EU: different files

Germany and the Netherlands · EU

The DGT EU route includes ownership evidence, origin documents, ITV inspection and tax evidence. Confirm the specific documents and translations before the appointment.

UK, Switzerland and other non-EU origins

Review the customs route, import records and applicable approval requirements. The EU checklist is not a complete non-EU application; also check any special treatment for a residence transfer.

VAT: new does not just mean unregistered

For VAT, a car can be new if supplied before six months from first use or if it has travelled no more than 6,000 km. Either condition is enough. An intra-EU acquisition of a new vehicle can be taxable in Spain even when advertised as used. Confirm the invoice regime and buyer status before payment.

Germany to Spain →Netherlands to Spain →Import help in Andalusia →