Legal requirements for importing and registering cars in 2025

Legal requirements for importing and registering cars in 2025 regulate the importation and registration of imported cars in Russia. As of 10:10am on 8 July 2025, changes in legislation are making the process more complicated for car owners. In this article, GetCar.ru and I will break down the legal conditions for importing a car and tips on customs clearance.

Import requirements

Compliance with technical regulations

Compliance with technical regulations is mandatory. For example, cars must comply with UNECE standards. It is also required to install the GLONASS system for new cars. In addition, non-compliance will result in refusal of importation. Thus, this is the basic element of the legal conditions for importing a car.

Customs clearance

The formalisation confirms legality. For example, payment of customs duty and utilisation fee is mandatory. Also, the goods declaration is submitted within 10 days. Moreover, for cars from the EAEU, additional fees apply from 1 April 2024. Hence, this is a key factor registration of imported cars: norms.

Documents for import

Passport of the vehicle (PTS)

The PTS certifies the origin. For example, the original PTS with a Russian translation is mandatory. Also, duplicates require verification. In addition, the absence of a PTS blocks the process. Thus, this is advice on customs clearance.

Certificate of Conformity

A certificate confirms safety. For example, the OTCS is issued after verification at certification centres. Simplified certification is also required for parallel imports until 31 December 2024. Moreover, it is a mandatory step. Consequently, it is an aspect of the legal conditions for importing cars.

Registration with the traffic police

Filing of documents

The documents are submitted to the traffic police. For example, submit the PTS, sale and purchase agreement and tax receipt within 10 days. The VIN number is also checked. In addition, the electronic queue simplifies the process. Thus, this is an element of the registration of imported cars: norms.

Technical inspection

The inspection confirms the condition. For example, they check compliance with technical regulations and GLONASS installation. Diagnostics is also carried out at a service station. Moreover, it is required before the licence plates are issued. Consequently, it is an advice on customs clearance.

Changes in 2025

Increase in utilisation fee

The levy has increased from 2024. For example, for cars older than 3 years with an engine over 3 litres, the rate has increased 2-3 times. It also affects the cost of imported cars. Moreover, the changes continue in 2025. Thus, it is part of the legal conditions for importing autos.

Restrictions on parallel imports

Imports are restricted. For example, the list of authorised brands is reduced from 2025. Also, from 1 April 2024, it is prohibited to import electric cars from the EAEU without additional payments. In addition, this raises prices. Consequently, this is an aspect of the registration of imported cars: norms.

Practical recommendations

Consultation with a customs broker

A broker simplifies the process. For example, check rates and gather documents with the help of a specialist. It also reduces the risks of mistakes. Moreover, the services cost from 10,000 rubles. Thus, it is an advice on customs clearance.

Car history check

History prevents problems. For example, use Carfax or traffic police databases. Also check for theft or arrest. In addition, it increases the confidence of the buyer. Consequently, it is an element of the legal conditions of importing a car.

Conclusion: legal importation and registration

Legal requirements for importing and registering cars in 2025 require compliance with technical regulations and customs rules. Increased fees and restrictions on parallel imports complicate the process. With GetCar.co.uk you will get help with imported car registration: regulations. Contact a broker and get your auto inspected for success!