Import Car List

Import Approval Is Mandatory

Every vehicle imported into Australia must receive approval from the Department of Infrastructure. Importing without approval is prohibited and may result in penalties. You may apply for: Vehicle Type Approval, Concessional RAV Entry (e.g. via SEVS), Non-RAV Entry, or Re-importation (returning previously exported vehicles).

Import Pathways

There are several pathways for importing cars:

a) 25-Year Rule:
Allows import of vehicles that are 25 years or older. These cars must still meet biosecurity, customs, and compliance requirements.

b) SEVS (Specialist & Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme):
Allows import of unique, rare, or performance vehicles under 25 years old not sold locally. Must be listed on the SEVS Register and comply through a Registered Automotive Workshop (RAW).

c) Personal Import Scheme:
For Australian residents returning from overseas who have owned and used their vehicle abroad for at least 12 months.

d) Race/Rally Import:
For vehicles used solely for racing or competition. These vehicles are not eligible for road registration.

Compliance Requirements

All imported vehicles must meet Australian Design Rules (ADRs), which cover safety, emissions, lighting, and anti-theft standards. For SEVS-approved vehicles, a RAW performs the necessary compliance before the vehicle is entered into the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV)

Summary Table

Pathway	Eligibility	Requirements
25‑Year Rule	≥ 25 yrs old	ADR compliance, import approval
SEVS	< 25 yrs, rare/performance, not sold here	SEVs listing → concessional RAV → RAW compliance
Personal Import	Owned overseas ≥12 mo, relocating	Import approval
Race/Rally	Competition vehicle (verified)	Race-use only approval

Need Help?

At Tokyo Cars, we can guide you through every step-from sourcing eligible models and checking SEVS listings, to working with Registered Automotive Workshops for compliance. Contact us today to find out how we can help bring your dream car from Japan to your driveway