At Match Better Valencia, we get this question all the time from clients who are moving to Spain:
“Can I just bring my car with me? Or is it smarter to buy one here?”

The answer depends on your personal situation and what you value most. In this blog, we break down the options so you can make a well-informed decision.

Option 1: Bringing your car to Spain

Yes, you’re allowed to bring your Dutch (or Belgian) car to Spain. Many people do, especially if the car is still in good condition or recently purchased. But there are rules:

1. Temporary stay (up to 6 months)
   If you’re staying less than 6 months in Spain, you can continue driving your car with a Dutch plate without any obligations. You’ll need to prove that you’re officially still a resident in the Netherlands.
2. Permanent stay: registration & import
   If you register as a Spanish resident (empadronamiento + residencia), you’ll need to import your car officially. This includes:

• Registering your car with the Spanish traffic office (DGT)
• Applying for Spanish license plates
• Passing the Spanish vehicle inspection (ITV)
• Taking out Spanish car insurance
• Possibly paying registration tax (impuesto de matriculación)

⚠️ Keep in mind: these costs can be significant, depending on the age, emissions and catalog value of your car.

Pros of bringing your own car:

• You know what you’re driving
• No need to spend money on another vehicle
• You’re comfortable with your own car

Cons:

• The admin process can be complex
• Import taxes can be high
• Not every car passes the ITV inspection easily

Option 2: Buying a car in Spain

More and more expats are choosing to buy a car locally in Spain. This can be done through a private seller, dealer, or garage. Always double-check the paperwork and maintenance history.

Types of cars:

• Second-hand cars (coches de ocasión) are very popular, but often more expensive than in the Netherlands
• New cars are usually more affordable than expected in Spain, especially smaller models

Pros of buying in Spain:

• No need to import a car
• Already registered and insured in Spain
• You avoid the entire import process

Cons:

• Less transparency with second-hand purchases
• Prices may be higher than what you’re used to
• The market is tighter in regions like Valencia

So… what’s the smartest choice?

Are you attached to your car, is it relatively new and in good condition? Then bringing it might be a good idea – as long as you’re prepared to handle (or outsource) the paperwork.

Looking for simplicity, want to hit the road quickly and skip the import hassle? Then buying locally might be the better option.

Our tip: get expert advice on the actual import costs and check if your car meets Spanish requirements. We work with trusted local professionals who can guide you through the process smoothly.

Still have questions?
At Match Better Valencia, we’re happy to help you make the best decision. From paperwork to practical support – we’ll make sure you hit the road in Spain without stress.

🚗 Ready to move and drive under the Spanish sun? Send us a message anytime!