How to buy or acquire a car abroad: what you need to know?

Buying or importing a car: what to choose?

The question of whether to buy a car, import it to a new country, or manage without personal transportation directly depends on the specifics of life in that new place. For example, in Cyprus and the United Arab Emirates, having a car becomes almost a necessity, as public transport may not provide the required level of comfort and accessibility. On the other hand, in Turkey and Bulgaria, people can move around quite conveniently using public transport, which reduces the need for personal cars.

Legislative regulations for foreign drivers

The rules regarding foreign drivers vary according to the laws of different countries. During the initial adaptation phase, you can usually use your driver's license issued in your home country. However, after a certain period of time, it becomes necessary to replace it with a local license.

• In some countries, for example, Russians may face the requirement to return their identification documents in order to obtain new local ones.
• In Germany, to obtain a driver's license, it is necessary to complete special courses and successfully pass exams.
• In the UAE, there is no need for re-education, but it is required to pass both theoretical and practical exams.
• In Montenegro, it is possible to exchange documentation issued in other countries for a local license if you have a residence permit.

Importing a car: a profitable solution

When it comes to importing cars, in some countries it is the most advantageous solution. Turkey is an example, where many Russians arrive with cars they already own. Local laws allow the use of vehicles with foreign license plates for two years. This rule also applies to Ukrainians leaving their country, while several European countries have extended the time limits for using cars with non-resident plates.

Purchasing a car abroad

In order to purchase a car abroad, foreigners often need a residence permit. In countries like the UAE, Germany, and Bulgaria, it is much more sensible to buy a local car than to import your own. In Montenegro, both options - buying a car abroad or a local one - can have their advantages, and the choice will depend on the preferences of the individual.

Requirements in the UAE for foreign buyers

In the UAE, foreigners can also buy a car even with a tourist visa if they plan to export it out of the country. However, if there is an intention to stay on a permanent basis, it will be necessary to obtain a resident visa and get an ID card.

• One way to obtain residency in the UAE is through a job offer from a local employer or by starting your own business.
• There is also a "golden visa" program that allows you to obtain a residence permit for up to ten years in exchange for investments in real estate.

Legalization of stay in the UAE

According to Sergey Luptakov, who holds the position of general director of Riu Property, if you are planning to move to the United Arab Emirates, you should first of all take care of legalizing your presence in the country. This includes obtaining a residence permit and a corresponding card. Only after that you can proceed to the procedure of purchasing a car.

Rules for driving a car

It is important to note that in the UAE, individuals without a local driver's license are prohibited from driving vehicles that belong to other people. The only exception is for rental cars.

Driver's licenses issued by European Union countries, as well as by Russian and Ukrainian authorities, may be recognized in the UAE. However, it is important to know that with such licenses, you will only be able to drive rental cars and only during a tourist trip while in Dubai or any other emirate.

After obtaining a residence permit, the ability to use foreign driver's licenses disappears, and you will need to obtain local licenses, which means you will have to take an exam for foreigners.

Gender aspects of obtaining a driver's license

A distinctive feature of the Arab state is the gender-based division of driver's licenses. For example, women often find it more difficult to obtain a license for driving cars with manual transmission. It should be noted that in the UAE, automatic transmission vehicles dominate, while manual cars are mainly represented by SUVs designed for travel in desert areas.

Automotive infrastructure

The automotive infrastructure in Dubai and other emirates is largely geared towards car owners, making it difficult for pedestrians to get around. In some areas, it's easier to travel by car than on foot. Having a personal vehicle significantly simplifies access to remote corners, other emirates, and allows for comfortable shopping in large malls.

In Dubai, which is the most visited emirate, the metro and ground public transport systems are well developed. However, traveling by car often turns out to be faster and more convenient, even despite the possibility of traffic jams on the main roads.

Choosing a car in the UAE

Due to the climatic conditions in the UAE, it is recommended to choose Japanese or Korean-made cars. European brands are not always able to withstand high temperatures, except for some S-class models from well-known manufacturers.

Buying cars in the UAE

Recently, there has been a rise in car prices in Russia, prompting some people to look for ways to save by purchasing foreign cars in the UAE for subsequent export. An expert advises choosing cars that are between two to five years old, with engine sizes not exceeding two liters.

The process of buying a car in Cyprus

As for Cyprus, in order to purchase a car on the island, register it, and obtain a registration certificate, a foreign citizen must have a temporary residence permit or a work visa. It is not possible to register a car with a tourist visa.

Thus, the process of buying a car in Cyprus requires following certain legal procedures and having the necessary documentation.

Registering a car in the name of a relative or friend

Registering a car in the name of a relative or friend who is a citizen or resident of Cyprus is one of the legal ways to manage a vehicle for those who wish to use it in the country. To do this, it is enough to be included in the compulsory insurance policy, which eliminates the need for a power of attorney, something that is often required in Russia.

Rights of CIS citizens to drive a car

Artyom Spiryn, the director of 1st Property Broker Cyprus, notes that residents of the CIS have the opportunity to drive a car that has been brought from their home countries. Most often, these cars are delivered by ferries from Bulgarian and Greek ports. According to current laws, owners of cars with Russian, Belarusian, or Kazakhstani license plates can use their vehicles in Cyprus for up to six months.

Car re-registration

After six months, the car needs to be re-registered and VAT and customs duties must be paid. Otherwise, to extend the car's stay, it should be temporarily taken out of the country for 1-2 days, for example, to Greece, and then returned to Cyprus for another six months.

Left-hand traffic

It is important to note that in Cyprus, traffic moves on the left side, which can create certain difficulties for drivers accustomed to right-side driving. Special conditions are provided for Ukrainians: they can use their cars in Cyprus for up to one year. Owners of such vehicles must go to the port to extend their permit six months after importation.

Use of driver's license

For CIS citizens arriving in Cyprus, a driver's license is relevant and can be used for six months. Nevertheless, it is necessary to be registered in an insurance policy and to comply with traffic rules to avoid conflicts with law enforcement agencies.

Fines and subsequent actions

In Cyprus, there is a penalty system where a driver who accumulates 12 "points" due to violations can be summoned to the police and have their driver's license revoked. If you plan to stay in Cyprus for more than six months, it is highly advisable to exchange your driver's license for a Cypriot one.

Procedure for obtaining Cypriot driving licenses

To do this, you will need to provide a certificate of successful completion of driving school exams in your country. Retraining is not required, but the Russian driver's license will be confiscated and sent to the consulate. Upon returning to Russia, you will have to use the Cypriot driver's license.

The absence of a car in Cyprus

According to Spirin, not having a car in Cyprus is not a problem only if you live in a tourist area. Otherwise, the lack of personal transportation can cause significant inconvenience. Buses make regular trips between cities, but within the settlements public transportation is almost non-existent.

Car rental

Many foreigners moving to Cyprus initially choose to rent a car, both short-term and long-term. You can rent a small budget car for 25-30 euros a day or discuss long-term rental options.

Conclusion

Familiarizing yourself with the driving features in Cyprus can greatly simplify your life on this magnificent island.

Car rental rules

Every car rental company has its own unique terms regarding payment and the amount of the deposit. When a person obtains a residence permit, they start thinking about options for acquiring a car.

Luxury cars from the United Kingdom

For those interested in luxury cars, experts recommend paying attention to executive models from the UK, as there, like in Cyprus, most cars are equipped with right-hand drive.

Requirements for car owners in Turkey

In Turkey, having a residence permit is a mandatory requirement to become a car owner, emphasizes Irina Bryunet, a sales manager at Alanya Luxury Realty. Additionally, it is possible to register the vehicle in the name of a close relative if they are a resident or citizen of Turkey, and then drive the car using an official power of attorney.

Use of foreign cars

Many foreigners prefer to come to Turkey in their own cars. Those who have a residence permit are allowed to use vehicles with foreign license plates for up to two years (730 days). After that, they will need to temporarily leave the country in their car for 185 days.

Loyalty conditions for certain categories of citizens

It is important to note that there are more lenient conditions for pensioners, athletes, and workers who have come on a work visa. These categories of citizens only need to take their cars out of Turkey for a few days. Moreover, they are allowed to pay a refundable deposit and receive temporary license plates, which eliminates the need to leave the country for two years.

Customs clearance of cars in Turkey

The process of customs clearance for cars in Turkey is only possible for new vehicles, and this process can be quite expensive – ranging from 45% to 160% of the car's value, plus 18% VAT.

Terms of use of foreign rights

If you do not have a residence permit, the use of a foreign car is limited to the duration of your tourist visa.

• for Russian citizens — 60 days;
• for citizens of Ukraine — 90 days;
• For Belarusians — 30 days.

Driver's license in Turkey

Foreign driver's licenses are recognized in Turkey for six months. After this period, you will need to obtain a local license.

The legal system of Montenegro for foreign drivers

Montenegro offers foreign drivers a lot of opportunities thanks to its flexible legal system, which allows for addressing transportation issues according to personal needs and plans.

Obtaining a residence permit

Svetlana Zamotina, the head of the company Tradegoria, notes that in order to purchase a car, whether new or used with Montenegrin plates, a foreign citizen must obtain a residence permit known as "boravak." When registering the vehicle, the owner is assigned unique numbers with the RP index, which highlight that they are not a citizen of Montenegro, but merely a holder of a residence permit. These license plates are valid for one year, and the owner is required to renew them annually.

Alternative registration options

However, there are alternative options. For example, if a foreigner does not have citizenship in that country, they can only obtain regular license plates if the car is registered to a legal entity with which they are associated, such as if they run a business. It is worth noting that for a company car, travel logs must be maintained. In practice, many drivers may neglect this requirement, but in the event of a check, law enforcement officers can certainly request these documents.

Buying a car from a local resident

Additionally, there is the option to purchase a car from a citizen of Montenegro with a power of attorney for managing the vehicle. Although on paper the owner will remain a local resident, this arrangement can carry certain risks, and experts often advise against it.

Foreign cars in Montenegro

Many foreign citizens choose cars with foreign license plates. In Montenegro, it is common to see vehicles registered in European Union countries, as well as in Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus. In such cases, having a "boravak" permit is not mandatory.

Car insurance and registration

Imported cars in Montenegro are not subject to local registration; however, the car owner must obtain local insurance. The cost of insurance will depend on the engine power of the vehicle. If you plan to travel abroad, you will also need to obtain international insurance, often referred to as a "green card" or "zeleni karton" in Montenegrin. This document can be easily arranged right in Montenegro, which eliminates the need to travel to the country where the car was previously registered.

Driver's licenses

In Montenegro, driver's licenses issued in other countries are recognized, allowing you to drive without having to exchange your license for a Montenegrin one. If you have a residence permit, you can exchange your driver's license for a local one by following the appropriate procedure.

Replacing a driver's license in Montenegro

To renew a driver's license in Montenegro, you need to visit the nearest Ministry of Interior (MUP) office, fill out all the required documents, and pay the applicable state fees. You will not have to retake the driving tests.

Why is acquiring a car important?

The relevance of the issue of acquiring a car in this country is due to the insufficient development of public transportation. It is almost impossible to find the usual shuttle buses on the streets of Montenegro's cities. There are only a few regular routes connecting different settlements, including their outskirts.

Regular routes

• Old Bar — Bar — Sutomore — Chan
• Budva — Bečići — Sveti Stefan

Buses also run between remote villages located both on the coast and in the mountainous part of the region.

Transport communication

In addition, there is the option of traveling by train in Montenegro. You can get from the coastal cities of Bar and Sutomore to the capital, Podgorica, as well as to northern towns such as Kolašin, Plužine, and Bijelo Polje.

If you don't have your own car, you can use a taxi or rent a car.PricesFor long-term rentals, the prices are generally quite reasonable, which is why many immigrants living in Montenegro prefer this mode of transportation.

Options for acquiring a car

Everyone chooses the best option for themselves. If you prefer to bring your own vehicle, that is quite possible. If you decide to buy a car locally but have not yet obtained a residence permit, you might consider purchasing a car with foreign plates. However, if you are sure that Montenegro will be your permanent place of residence and you want to register a car with local plates, you will need to obtain a residence permit.

Buying a car in Bulgaria

As for Bulgaria, foreigners wishing to purchase a car must first obtain a residence permit that grants the right to temporary residence. Evgenia Prokazova, the sales director of Bulgaria Avenue, explains:“With this document, citizens of EU countries can register a car in their name.”While for immigrants from other countries, this is only possible through a legal entity.

Registration procedure

Thus, foreigners from the CIS first need to open a company, a so-called "zero firm" with no turnover, and only then can they purchase a vehicle. They will only be able to register the car in their name as an individual after obtaining permanent residency, which occurs after five years.

Registration of a motor vehicle

The registration of a vehicle is carried out at the KAT service, which is the equivalent of the traffic police in Bulgaria. The procedure can be done independently by waiting in line, or you can use the services of various intermediaries.

Car import

There is also the possibility of importing a car from another country, but the use of foreign license plates is allowed for a period of three months. After that, you will either need to leave the country for up to six months or go through the customs clearance and re-registration process for the car.

Introduction

In Bulgaria, foreigners can use their valid driver's licenses issued in other countries. However, after obtaining a residence permit (RP), they are required to exchange them for local Bulgarian licenses.

Procedure for exchanging rights

The exchange process usually goes smoothly, but it's important to be prepared for it to take about a month to complete.

Public transport in Bulgaria

Public transportation in the country is well-organized and diverse. The capital, Sofia, has a modern metro system, while coastal cities like Varna and Burgas are served by buses, trams, and trolleybuses.

The prices for public transport are quite reasonable, at just 50 euro cents, which makes this mode of transportation popular among both locals and tourists.

Buying a car

For those who prefer to use a personal car, it should be noted that bringing a car from abroad may not be practical. A more sensible solution would be to buy a new car from a local dealership or to import a used vehicle from Germany.

Registration in Germany

According to the information available to Sergey Luptakov, the CEO of Riu Property, a foreigner planning to purchase a car in Germany does not necessarily need a residence permit, but a temporary registration at their place of residence is required.

• If a foreigner is renting accommodation, the landlord should assist with the registration process.
• After successful registration, you can proceed to purchase a car.
• Then it is necessary to register the car with the local authorities.

Tax obligations

It is important to understand that after registering a vehicle, you become a tax resident of Germany.

Importing a car from your country

There is also the possibility of importing a car from your own country, such as one with Ukrainian license plates, which are allowed to be used without time restrictions. Drivers with Russian license plates are allowed to use their car for six months.

Environmental requirements

It is important to consider the strict environmental regulations in Germany that apply to cars. All vehicles must meet minimum standards of at least Euro 4, and in some cases Euro 6, especially in large cities where environmental concerns are a top priority.

• It is important to obtain a special sticker that relates to emission levels.
• This sticker should be placed on the car window.

For example, a green sticker with the number "4" allows for unrestricted movement, while cars with a yellow sticker may face restrictions when entering certain urban areas.

The validity period of a driver's license

Drivers who have a license issued in their country are allowed to drive a car in Germany for six months. After this period, the driver's license becomes invalid, and further use may lead to serious consequences, as it will be considered as driving without a license.

Obtaining a German driver's license

To obtain a German driver's license, it is necessary to complete courses at a driving school and successfully pass the exams, which ensures compliance with local requirements and standards.

In summary, I would like to note that the issue of acquiring or using a car abroad is a complex topic that requires a detailed approach. Each case is unique and depends on many factors, from the legislation of the countries we are moving to, to personal preferences and budget.

The car as a part of everyday life

For example, in Cyprus or the UAE, a car becomes not just a means of transportation, but a part of everyday life. Here, it can be difficult to get by without a car, especially if you plan to travel around the island or the emirates. In contrast, in countries like Turkey and Bulgaria, accessible and efficient public transport can serve as a worthy alternative to a personal vehicle.

Driver's license and vehicle registration

It is important to consider the nuances related to the driver's rights and vehicle registration. In many cases, you will have to go through the procedure.exchange of driver's licenseand sometimes even —retrainingThis should be taken into account not only when buying but also when renting cars. The final choice should always be based on the specific conditions and goals of your move.

The cost of the car

An important point is the question of cost. In different countriescar purchaseIt can be both profitable and not very much so, depending on the market situation and government policies. Therefore, before making a decision, it is advisable to thoroughly study all available options and potential risks.

Personal approach and advice

Finally, when choosing between buying and renting, it's important to consider your personal circumstances. Perhaps it makes sense to bring your own car if it's justified, or to take advantage of the available car rental options in the country? In conclusion, I encourage you to prepare in advance for the move and carefully weigh all the pros and cons, so that your journey can be more comfortable and enjoyable.

The experience of other people

People who have already gone through this journey can share their experiences and even advice — this will undoubtedly help in your decision-making. In conclusion, I want to wish you good luck in every endeavor, and may the path you choose lead to a successful and happy new chapter in your life.