Cover for Japanese, US, EU and parallel imports registered in the UK
If your car was originally manufactured for a market outside the UK and later brought into the country, insurers typically classify it as an import. This includes Japanese imports, US models, EU vehicles, and parallel imports that have been registered with the DVLA for UK roads.
Reviewed by MySupermarketCompare Editorial Team
Compare insurance for imported vehicles
Get quotes from insurers who consider imports. Compare cover levels, check eligibility, and see what each policy includes.
Compare insurance for imported vehiclesThis page is for drivers in the UK who own or are considering buying an imported vehicle. Whether you already have a Japanese import, a US-spec model, an EU vehicle brought over privately, or a parallel import purchased through specialist dealers, understanding how insurers approach these vehicles can help you compare options and provide accurate information when getting quotes.
An imported car is typically a vehicle that was originally manufactured for sale outside the UK and subsequently brought into the country. This includes Japanese imports (often referred to as grey imports), vehicles from the EU, US models, or parallel imports. The GOV.UK guide to importing vehicles explains the registration and compliance requirements for bringing a car into the UK.
Imports range from everyday models to performance vehicles. Some are high-performance cars not officially sold in the UK, while others are standard family vehicles from overseas markets. Once registered with the DVLA and given UK number plates, these cars are driven on UK roads like any other vehicle, but insurers may ask additional questions about specifications and origin.
Insurance for imported cars works in much the same way as standard car insurance: you declare your circumstances, the insurer assesses risk, and you receive a quote. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), thousands of vehicles are imported into the UK each year, and these vehicles introduce factors that some insurers weigh differently.
These include specification variations between UK-market and foreign-market versions, the availability of replacement parts, repair network familiarity, and valuation methods for models that may not have a clear UK equivalent. Not all insurers offer cover for imports, and those that do may have different criteria or pricing structures.
Some insurers specialise in imported vehicles and have experience assessing these factors. Others may decline certain types of import or apply additional conditions. Comparing quotes from multiple providers allows you to see which insurers cover your vehicle and under what terms.
Import car insurance policies typically offer the same cover levels as standard policies: comprehensive, third party fire and theft, and third party only. Comprehensive cover protects your vehicle against damage, theft, and fire, as well as covering third-party injury or property damage. Third party fire and theft covers third-party liabilities and protects your vehicle against fire and theft only. Third party only is the legal minimum.
Check what each policy includes beyond the basic cover. Optional extras such as breakdown cover, legal protection, courtesy car provision, and windscreen cover may be available. Some policies include these, while others offer them as add-ons.
Policy wording should clarify how claims are handled. For imports, this might include details about approved repair networks, sourcing parts, or valuation methods in the event of a total loss. Reading the terms before you buy helps you understand exactly what is and is not covered.
Check insurers that cover Japanese and US imports
See which providers offer cover for Japanese, US, and EU imports. Compare policy details, excess amounts, and what each option includes.
Check insurers that cover Japanese and US importsWhen assessing imported vehicles, insurers evaluate several factors that may differ from UK-market equivalents. You must declare your vehicle's import status, specifications, modifications, and usage accurately. Inaccurate or incomplete information may invalidate cover or affect claims.
Imported vehicles may have specifications that differ from their UK-market equivalents. Engine sizes, trim levels, and equipment can vary between regions. When completing quote forms, ensure the details match what is registered with the DVLA. Using the VIN (vehicle identification number) helps confirm exact specifications. Providing inaccurate information could lead to incorrect cover or issues during a claim.
Replacement parts for imported vehicles may need to be sourced from overseas or specialist suppliers, which can extend repair times. Some insurers have arrangements with garages experienced in working with imports, while others may require you to use approved repair networks. Check the policy terms to understand how repairs are handled. If you have a preferred garage that specialises in your vehicle type, ask whether the insurer allows this. Parts availability does not automatically mean higher premiums, but it is a factor insurers consider when assessing risk.
Some insurers view left-hand drive vehicles differently, particularly regarding safety and visibility on UK roads. Not all insurers cover left-hand drive imports equally. Availability and pricing can vary between providers, and some may have specific restrictions or requirements for left-hand drive vehicles.
Some imported models, particularly performance or rare vehicles, may require additional security measures such as trackers, immobilisers, or secure overnight storage. Insurers may ask what security devices are fitted and where the vehicle is kept. Meeting these requirements can be a condition of cover for certain imports.
Rare or sought-after imports can be attractive to thieves, which may influence premiums or security requirements. Some insurers may classify certain imported models as higher risk based on theft statistics or claims history. If your vehicle is stolen and security conditions were not met, this could affect a claim.
Valuing an imported vehicle can be more complex than valuing a UK-market equivalent, particularly if there is no direct comparison. Some policies use market value, which is determined at the time of a claim based on similar vehicles. Others may offer agreed value, where the insurer and policyholder agree on the vehicle's worth upfront.
If you choose agreed value, you may need to provide supporting evidence such as recent valuations or sale listings. Understanding how your vehicle will be valued in a total-loss scenario is important. Check the policy wording carefully to see which valuation method applies and what evidence the insurer may require.
Being an import does not automatically mean a vehicle is modified. Many imports are standard specification for their home market. However, if any changes have been made after import, such as performance upgrades, body modifications, or aftermarket parts, these must be declared separately. Modifications affect how insurers assess the vehicle, and failing to declare them could invalidate cover.
If your imported car is leased or financed, the lease or finance company may have specific insurance requirements, such as minimum cover levels or approved insurers. Check these terms before arranging cover.
Some imports are electric vehicles brought in from markets where EVs are more common. Electric imports may require insurers experienced with EV-specific considerations such as battery cover and charging infrastructure.
If you import a vehicle yourself or purchase one recently brought into the UK, ensure all registration, MOT, and roadworthiness requirements are met through the DVLA vehicle registration service before arranging insurance. Insurers expect vehicles to be legally registered and fit for UK roads.
See cover options for left-hand drive imports
Find insurers who consider left-hand drive and other imported vehicles. Check policy terms, eligibility criteria, and pricing.
See cover options for left-hand drive importsAn imported car is typically a vehicle that was originally manufactured for sale outside the UK and subsequently brought into the country. This includes Japanese imports (often referred to as grey imports), vehicles from the EU, US models, or parallel imports. Once registered with the DVLA and given UK number plates, these vehicles can be insured in the UK, though insurers may ask additional questions about specifications and origin.
Yes. When applying for car insurance, you must declare that your vehicle is an import. Insurers need to know the origin because spec differences, parts availability, and repair considerations can affect how they assess risk. Failing to declare import status could invalidate your cover.
Many insurers offer cover for imported vehicles on standard UK policies, though some may have specific criteria or exclusions. Availability depends on factors such as the vehicle make, model, age, whether it is left-hand or right-hand drive, and how common the model is in the UK. Some insurers specialise in imports, while others may decline certain types. Comparing quotes helps you see which providers offer cover for your specific vehicle.
It can. Japanese imports and other foreign-market vehicles may use parts that are less readily available in the UK or require specialist suppliers. Repair times can be longer, and costs may differ from UK-market equivalents. Some policies specify approved repair networks, and it is worth checking whether your insurer has arrangements with garages experienced in working with imported models. This does not necessarily mean higher premiums, but it is a factor insurers consider.
When comparing quotes for an imported car, have the following ready: UK postcode, driver details (age, licence type, driving history), vehicle registration and VIN, accurate engine size and transmission details as per UK registration, country of origin if known, details of any modifications distinct from import status, security devices fitted (alarm, immobiliser, tracker), where the car is kept overnight, estimated annual mileage, approximate current value, and any claims or convictions to declare.
Valuing an imported vehicle can be more complex than valuing a UK-market equivalent, particularly if there is no direct comparison. Some policies use market value, which is determined at the time of a claim based on similar vehicles. Others may offer agreed value, where the insurer and policyholder agree on the vehicle's worth upfront. If you choose agreed value, you may need to provide supporting evidence such as recent valuations or sale listings.
Some insurers view left-hand drive vehicles differently, particularly regarding safety and visibility on UK roads. Not all insurers cover left-hand drive imports equally. Availability and pricing can vary between providers, and some may have specific restrictions or requirements for left-hand drive vehicles.
About this page:
This page focuses on insurance considerations for imported vehicles. It does not cover modified cars unless modifications are declared separately, or performance-only underwriting.
This page provides general information about car insurance for imported vehicles in the UK. MySupermarketCompare is a comparison website and insurance introducer, not an insurer. We may earn a commission if you purchase a policy through our service.
Eligibility, cover terms, and pricing vary between insurers. Not all insurers offer cover for imported vehicles, and those that do may have different criteria. The information on this page does not constitute legal, financial, or customs advice.
Last reviewed: February 2026
Review process: Updated when insurer underwriting guidance or industry practice for imported vehicles changes.
Get tips, guides, and exclusive offers for the insurance types you're interested in