What is the age restriction on imported cars in Sri Lanka?

Vehicles should not be older than 25 years in order for them to be imported in Sri Lanka.

Do I need a license from the government to import cars in Sri Lanka

No. There is no requirement for a license by the government. However, you need to obtain an import approval for both the importation of the automobile and the supply of the automobile within the Sri Lanka market.

How much car import tax must I pay when importing a vehicle from Japan to Sri Lanka?

Taxes and duties applied depend upon the country of origin. If the vehicle originates from a country with a free trade agreement with Sri Lanka, such as Japan, then only a 10% tax is charged.

Can I import a Japanese car to Sri Lanka?

Japanese cars can be imported in Sri Lanka through its seaports.

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Import Regulation

Year Restriction

Max. 3 Years Old

Shipping Port

Hambantota

Time to Ship

2 to 4 weeks

(can vary)

Pre-shipment inspection

Yes

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Used Cars Import Rules and Regulations in the Sri Lanka

Age Restrictions

The Sri Lankan government enacted age restrictions on imported vehicles. However, the age limit can vary depending on the type of vehicle.

The age of used cars should not be more than 3 years.
For vehicles such as vans, the age should not be more than 5 years.
For buses (8 – 10 passengers), ambulances, motor cars, motorbikes, and sports vehicles such as jeeps, the age limit is 3 years.
Trucks, Lorries, and cabs shouldn’t be older than 4 years old from the date of manufacturing at the time of importation.

Right-Hand Drive

In Sri Lanka, only the import of right-hand drive vehicles is permitted.

Inspection

An original JAAI inspection certificate is mandatory at customs clearance. JAAI inspection should be passed in Japan, and this document will also be needed for the letter of authentication (LCA) transaction.

Import Permit

An import permit is required for vehicles to be shipped to Sri Lanka. An import permit is issued through the Sri Lanka Land Transport Authority (LTA). You can also get it through an authorized agent.

Import Duties and Taxes on Used Cars in Sri Lanka

Customs duties and taxes are applied on imported vehicles. The rates depend upon factors such as cylinder capacity.

50% on 1000cc
55% on 1600cc
60% on 2000cc
70% on 2600cc

Documents Required for Import of Vehicle in Sri Lanka

Bill of Lading
Commercial invoice
Registration certificate
Air waybill
Letter of authentication
Import permit or license
Export certificate
Insurance certificate
Value declaration form
ID copy/ Passport
Original registration certificate (Translated into English)
Transport Ministry Approval (Required when importing left-hand drive vehicle)

Documents needed for customs clearance and vehicle registration are:

Cancellation Certificate [both in Japanese & in English].

Bill of Lading [Original 1st & 2nd].

Commercial Invoice.

Letter of Authorization [The letter confirming that you are giving legal rights to the clearing agent to act on your behalf].

Identification Document, for example, a Passport.

Step 1:

The documents from 1-3 (Cancellation Certificate, Bill of Lading, and Invoice) mentioned above will be sent to you via DHL. Please prepare the letter of authorization and identification document yourself.

Step 3:

Besides customs clearance, there will also be a process for duty and tax payment, police check for registration, and a roadworthiness check to obtain a number plate. A local clearing agent in South Africa will be helpful for these procedures.

Used Cars for Sale in Sri Lanka - SAT Japan

Welcome to SAT Japan, your top destination for high-quality Used Cars for Sale in Sri Lanka. We take pride in offering an extensive selection of reliable, Whether you're looking for a compact car for city driving, a spacious family vehicle, or a powerful SUV, SAT Japan has the perfect car for you

Why Choose SAT Japan?

At SAT Japan, we are dedicated to offering our customers in Sri Lanka with the best car buying experience. Here's why choose us:

Wide Selection of Vehicles: Our inventory includes a variety of Used Cars for Sale in Sri Lanka, ensuring that you'll find the perfect car to suit your needs and budget.
Quality Assurance: Each vehicle undergoes a rigorous inspection process to ensure it meets our high standards for quality and safety.
Competitive Prices: We offer competitive pricing on all our vehicles, making it easier for you to own a top-quality used car.
Expert Support: Our team of knowledgeable professionals is here to assist you every step of the way, from selecting the right car to arranging shipping to Sri Lanka.

Easy Shipping to Sri Lanka

No matter where you are in the world, SAT Japan ensures a smooth and hassle-free shipping process. We have established partnerships with reliable shipping companies to deliver your vehicle safely and on time. Our team will handle all the necessary documentation and logistics, so you can enjoy your new car without any worries.

Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

At SAT Japan, customer satisfaction is our top priority. We strive to exceed your expectations by providing exceptional service and high-quality Used Cars for Sale. Don't just take our word for it - read what our satisfied customers in Sri Lanka have to say about their experience with SAT Japan. Browse our inventory of Best Japanese Cars and discover why discerning drivers choose SAT Japan for their Japanese used car needs.

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Why Choose SAT

Transparency

With SAT, you do not have to worry about hidden fees or extra charges. We strive to provide fair deals to our customers in Sri Lanka without compromising on quality.

Affordability

SAT takes pride in offering high-quality Japanese-used cars in Sri Lanka at affordable prices. With SAT, You can find reliable vehicles at the most reasonable rates.

Extensive Selection

Visit SAT and choose from our wide collection of Japanese used cars. We are Sri Lanka's biggest Japanese car exporters, offering vehicles that match your style and budget.

Unmatched Customer Service

Our dedicated team always goes above and beyond to offer exceptional services to our customers in Sri Lanka and build long-term relationships with them.

Customer Reviews

Suzuki SWIFT

saDWQsadsz

mmsnf

May 21, 2026

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Toyota ALLION

bohottttt achi gari hai matlab kamaaal

waji

May 18, 2026

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Toyota ALLION

very nice car

Johnny Jonny

May 14, 2026

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Honda WR-V

The car arrived in good condition and matched the listed specifications. Delivery took slightly longer than expected, but overall the experience was positive.

John Smith

May 14, 2026

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Nissan Wingroad

Customer support was responsive and helped throughout the process. The car condition matched the listing and delivery was completed on time.

Sarah

May 14, 2026

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Toyota WISH

The vehicle arrived exactly as described. The purchasing process was smooth, documentation was clear, and the car condition exceeded my expectations. Very satisfied with the overall experience.

Ahmed Khan

May 14, 2026

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Payment Methods

Bank Transfer

Credit/Debit Card

Paypal

Visit our nearest branch

Our Head Office

Import Regulation

Year Restriction

Shipping Port

Time to Ship

Pre-shipment inspection

Show More

Used Cars Import Rules and Regulations in the Sri Lanka

Age Restrictions

Right-Hand Drive

Inspection

Import Permit

Import Duties and Taxes on Used Cars in Sri Lanka

Documents Required for Import of Vehicle in Sri Lanka

Customs Clearance & Registration Process

Documents needed for customs clearance and vehicle registration are:

Step 1:

Step 2:

Step 3:

LC Service for SriLanka

Used Cars for Sale in Sri Lanka - SAT Japan

Why Choose SAT Japan?

Easy Shipping to Sri Lanka

Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

Why Choose SAT

Transparency

Affordability

Extensive Selection

Unmatched Customer Service

Customer Reviews

Suzuki SWIFT

Toyota ALLION

Toyota ALLION

Honda WR-V

Nissan Wingroad

Toyota WISH

Get More With Our App

Frequently Asked Questions