Attn:  All Economic Operators

Subject:  Changes in Used Vehicles Importation Procedures

As part of our ongoing efforts to reduce the number of controls, facilitate trade, and ensure compliance, the Malta Tax and Customs Administration – Customs Operations – would like to inform you about an update in the procedures for importing second-hand vehicles.

Risk Criteria and Random Selection:

o With effect from Monday, 16th  December 2024, the importation of second-hand vehicles will be assessed based on risk criteria and random selection, aiming to reduce the number of physical checks while maintaining compliance.

o Declarations will either be instantly released (green) OR documentary check (yellow) OR physical control (red)

Documentary Check Process:

o Outright Import: Declarants must present the customs declaration and supporting documents at the Valuation Office for a documentary control (yellow).

o Warehousing Procedure: Declarations must be submitted to the Special Procedures Unit – Warehousing section.

Decision on Physical Inspection:

o The Customs Officer, after assessing the documentation for the documentary check declarations, will decide whether a physical inspection is required.

o Based on the decision, the declaration will be rerouted to either to the Green Channel: Goods released OR Red Channel: Selected for physical control.

Update to Vehicle Registration Inspection Forms:

In coordination with Transport Malta, the requirement for Customs Officers to complete Part E of the Inspection Form for Used Vehicles (VEH 005) and New Vehicles (VEH 04) is being removed. This change applies regardless of whether a physical inspection is conducted.

Clearance by Transport Malta

Regardless of whether the vehicles are selected for physical inspection, clearance from Transport Malta (TM) and the standard formalities must still be followed. If the vehicles are not physically inspected, they cannot leave the quay unless the VEH 05 form is stamped by a TM official. Therefore, officers at the office of destination should only issue the gate pass upon receiving the stamped VEH 05 form.

For additional clarifications, you are kindly requested to send an email to Director Trade Facilitation ([email protected]) or contact the respective offices.