From our Blog
Vehicle Import Approvals: All You Need to Know
At SEA GO International, we’ve helped thousands of clients successfully navigate Australia’s import approval process. This complete guide explains what VIA is, how to apply through the ROVER system, and what to expect at each step.
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Importing a vehicle into Australia requires more than just a shipping plan — it demands legal clearance through Vehicle Import Approval (VIA). Without VIA, your car will not be released by the Australian Border Force, potentially leading to heavy storage fees, logistical delays and possible vehicle return to its origin country.
What Is a Vehicle Import Approval?
A Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) is an official permit required to legally bring any road vehicle into Australia. It is issued by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts under the Road Vehicle Standards Act (RVSA) 2018.
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Importing any vehicle without this approval is an offence under Section 22 of the RVSA, and such vehicles will be held by Australian Border Force until proper documentation is provided. Heavy storage fees and penalties can apply if approval is missing upon arrival.
Why Vehicle Import Approval Is Important
Without VIA, your vehicle cannot enter the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV) — Australia’s database of compliant vehicles. The RAV replaced the old system of physical compliance plates and now functions as a complete record of every vehicle approved for Australian use.
If your vehicle arrives without an import permit:
- The Australian Border Force (ABF) will hold it at port.
- Daily storage and demurrage fees will apply until approval is shown.
- You risk extra servicing costs or, in severe cases, vehicle return to the origin country.
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To avoid these risks, always confirm VIA approval before your shipping date.
How to Apply for VIA: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Register on ROVER
ROVER is the government’s online portal for managing VIA applications. Start by creating an account and verifying your identity using an Australian Government Digital ID.
Website: ROVER – Department of Infrastructure Vehicle Portal
Step 2: Choose the Correct Application Type
You must select your vehicle’s category, purpose, and import reason before applying. Each type has specific documentation and eligibility rules (outlined below).
Step 3: Submit Documentation
Common documents include:
- Proof of ownership or purchase invoice
- Bill of sale or registration certificate
- Copy of passport or identification
- Shipping details (bill of lading, origin/destination)
- Evidence of compliance with ADR where applicable
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
Application charges vary but are typically between AUD $50–$100 depending on type.
Step 5: Processing and Approval
Processing time averages 15–20 business days for standard applications but can extend during peak periods or incomplete submissions. Always submit your VIA at least 4–6 weeks before your shipping departure.
Contact SEA GO International today for expert guidance and a seamless experience!
SEA GO can handle VIA applications on your behalf!
Types of Vehicle Import Approvals
Different import categories apply depending on your vehicle’s age, purpose, and condition. Below are the main pathways accepted under the RVSA:
1. Personal Import Approval
Ideal for individuals that are permanently relocating from their origin country to Australia, who wish to import their personal vehicle.
Requirements:
- Proof of overseas residence (utility bills, rental agreements).
- Proof of vehicle ownership during your residence.
- The vehicle must have been owned and used for at least 12 months before import.
- Proof of permanent relocation from origin country to Australia.
Restrictions: Limited to one vehicle per person within a five-year period; resale may be prohibited for a set duration. VIA application must be lodged within 6 months of the owner’s arrival in Australia.
2. Concessional RAV Entry Approval
Designed for vehicles meeting specific historic, cultural, or modification-based exemptions. This includes:
- Vehicles older than 25 years (classic/vintage).
- Special purpose vehicles or those built for off-road or specialized use.
- Collector and enthusiast cars registered through the Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme (SEVS).
Learn more about collector eligibility standards in Car Import Rules and Taxes for Australia.
3. Non-RAV Entry Approvals
Applies to vehicles that won’t be registered for Australian roads, such as:
- Motorsport/racing vehicles.
- Public display or exhibition vehicles.
- Film or promotional use.
- Short-term demonstration or testing vehicles.
These imports must clearly declare that road registration is not intended.
4. Reimportation Approvals
For vehicles previously exported from Australia that are now being returned. The car must already exist on the Register of Approved Vehicles (RAV) or have had an Australian Compliance Plate under prior legislation.
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SEA GO assists clients with verification of prior Australian status before reimportation to simplify this process.
How Long Does VIA Approval Take?
According to the Department of Infrastructure:
- Standard applications: 15–20 business days.
- Complex or technical cases: up to 60 business days.
- Incomplete applications: delays of 5–10 additional days post-resubmission.
For best results, SEA GO recommends initiating VIA applications 4-6 weeks before expected vehicle loading to ensure a smooth shipping timeline.
Required Documents Checklist
Before submitting your VIA through ROVER, prepare:
- Completed online application form
- Proof of ownership (title or bill of sale)
- Photo ID (passport or driver’s licence)
- Vehicle data: make, VIN, year, mileage
- Evidence of compliance (if modified or imported from right-hand drive markets)
- Import purpose declaration
- Digital photos of the vehicle (full exterior, interior, engine bay, VIN plate)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Shipping without approval: Customs will put vehicles awaiting documentation on Customs Hold.
- Incorrect import type selection: Wrong category leads to rejection or resubmission delays.
- Incomplete documents: Missing proof of identity or age of vehicle is a common cause of delay.
- Not budgeting for inspection and quarantine: Each vehicle must pass biosecurity inspection before clearance.
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SEA GO’s import specialists review every document prior to submission, saving clients time and preventing application rejections.
VIA Processing Costs (ROVER)
The Vehicle Import Approval (VIA) processing fee is a non-refundable payment made via the ROVER online system when submitting your application.
- The current VIA application fee ranges from AUD $50 to $100, depending on the type of approval and vehicle category.
Please note that taxes, duties, and levies such as Import Duty, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and Luxury Car Tax (LCT) are separate charges applied by Australian Border Force and are not part of the VIA application process or fee.
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For more details on import taxes, visit our guide: UK to Australia Car Import & Shipping Costs 2025.
What Happens After Approval
Once approved, you’ll receive an Import Approval Certificate (PDF) by email. Provide this document to your:
- Shipping company (for vessel load confirmation).
- Customs broker or clearance team.
On arrival, SEA GO coordinates port clearance, RAV registration, and quarantine inspection to ensure a seamless experience.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failure to secure VIA before arrival can result in:
- Vehicle hold by Australian Border Force.
- Heavy daily port/depot storage fees.
- Significant fines and legal action under Section 22 of the RVSA.
Always verify approval before shipping; your provider should confirm the VIA reference number with ROVER.
Contact SEA GO International today for expert guidance and a seamless experience!
Disclaimer:
Rates, timelines, and regulations are indicative and subject to change based on Department of Infrastructure updates and vessel scheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is Vehicle Import Approval (VIA)?
It’s an official permit issued by the Department of Infrastructure allowing road vehicles to be imported into Australia legally.
Q2: Why is VIA required?
Without VIA, the Australian Border Force will not release your car from customs, resulting in storage fees and potential return to its origin country.
Q3: How long does VIA approval take?
Typically 15–20 business days for complete applications; longer for complex cases.
Q4: What documents do I need?
Depends on the VIA scheme under which you apply. Proof of ownership, ID, bill of sale, and vehicle details like make, model, and VIN are essential.
Q5: Who can apply under the Personal Import Scheme?
Australian citizens or residents that are permanently relocating to Australia. Vehicles must have been owned and used overseas for a minimum of 12 months to qualify under this scheme.
Q6: Can I ship before VIA approval?
It is not recommended to start the shipping process before the VIA has been approved — your vehicle cannot be cleared without pre-approved import documentation.
Q7: Does SEA GO help with approvals?
Yes. SEA GO handles the full VIA process, including ROVER submissions, compliance checks, and follow-ups.
Q8: What if my vehicle is for racing or display only?
You may qualify for a non-RAV or special-purpose approval if the vehicle won’t be used on public roads.
Q9: How do I track my VIA progress?
Use your ROVER account portal to view application status and correspondence updates.
Q10: How long is the VIA valid?
VIA is typically valid for 12 months from the date of issue and must be used within that timeframe.
Contact SEA GO International today for expert guidance and a seamless experience!
For over 30 years, SEA GO International has been passionate about getting vehicles anywhere in the world, safely and efficiently. Our team offers a full range of services, from secure containerised shipping to innovative solutions like R-Rak.
- Import & Export Shipping
- Shared Container Service (R-Rak)
- Full Container Load (FCL)
- RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off)
- Caravan Shipping
- Vehicle Import Approvals (VIA)
- Vehicle Valuations
- Customs Clearance
