Chris Knott Insurance

Import Car Insurance

If you’ve imported a vehicle into the UK, arranging the right insurance often requires a more specialist approach. Imported cars can differ from UK models in specification, value and repair requirements – and not all insurers are set up to deal with that properly.

With over 40 years of experience, the Chris Knott team can arrange an insurance policy to keep your imported vehicle protected. We work with specialised insurers who understand imports, helping you insure your car on terms that reflect how it’s built, used and valued.

UK-Based Team
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Import Car Insurance
2,200+ reviews
4.9
40+
Years' Experience
Overview

What Is Imported Car Insurance?

Imported car insurance is motor insurance designed for vehicles that were not originally built for the UK market.

That includes:

  • Grey imports manufactured outside the EU
  • Parallel imports built to EU specification
  • Japanese (JDM), American or specialist European models
  • Left-hand drive vehicles
  • Cars with non-UK specifications or unique factory features
What Is Imported Car Insurance?
The Need

Why Do Imported Cars Need Specialist Insurance?

Imported vehicles often fall outside standard insurer criteria. Differences in specification, parts availability and market value can all affect how a policy for an imported car should be set up.

Some imports have features or performance levels not found on UK models, while others may be rarer or more valuable than their local equivalents. Repair costs can also be higher if parts need to be sourced from overseas or specialist repairers are required.

Insurance Before Registration

Still waiting for your UK registration? We may be able to arrange insurance based on your vehicle identification number (VIN) while DVLA paperwork is being finalised. This can help you secure valid cover during the registration process.

Without insurance, registering an imported vehicle can become a frustrating loop. We’ll guide you through what’s required and explain your options clearly.

Why Do Imported Cars Need Specialist Insurance?
Imported Cars We Can Cover

Imported Cars We Can Cover

We arrange cover for a wide range of imported vehicles, from mainstream European models to rare enthusiast builds.

International Imports

European Imports

Eastern European Imports

If your vehicle was imported from elsewhere, or you’re unsure whether we can help with import car insurance, speak to our team. We regularly arrange cover for less common imports and specialist vehicles.

Imported Cars We Can Cover
Why Choose Us

Why Choose Chris Knott for Imported Car Insurance?

As an independent broker, we’re not tied to one insurer, which allows us to compare quotes and find cover based on your specific car and circumstances. A leading insurance provider in the UK, we bring a combined 180 years of experience and 5-star-rated customer service. 

We’re authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA Register No: 304452), and our focus is always on clear advice, suitable import car cover and a straightforward service from start to finish.

Why Choose Chris Knott for Imported Car Insurance?
Do You Cover Modified Imported Cars?

Do You Cover Modified Imported Cars?

Many imported vehicles arrive with modifications or unique specifications, and these must be properly declared when establishing imported car insurance. We can arrange cover for modified imports, including performance and cosmetic changes, as well as compliance-related customisations. Our team will make sure everything is presented clearly to specialist insurers so your car insurance policy remains valid.

Do You Cover Modified Imported Cars?
Do You Cover Classic and Appreciating Imports?

Do You Cover Classic and Appreciating Imports?

Some imported vehicles (particularly older Japanese performance cars from the 1990s and classic American muscle cars) have increased in value in more recent years. For these, we often recommend agreed value insurance, which ensures your classic car is insured for a realistic and confirmed amount rather than a standard market estimate.

Do You Cover Classic and Appreciating Imports?
Frequently Asked Questions

Your Import Car Insurance Questions Answered

The most common questions we're asked about import car insurance. Can't find what you're looking for? Speak to our UK-based team on 0800 917 2274.

What documentation do I need to insure a Romanian import?

To arrange insurance for your Romanian import, you'll typically need:

  • Vehicle Registration Document (V5C) showing UK registration.
  • Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) certificate.
  • Valid MOT certificate.
  • Proof of vehicle value.
  • Import documentation.
  • Certificate of Conformity from the manufacturer.
  • Previous insurance history.

Our experienced team can guide you through exactly what documentation you'll need for your specific situation.

How does importing from Romania affect insurance?

Several factors can impact your insurance when importing a vehicle from Romania. Your vehicle must be properly registered with the DVLA and have passed all necessary inspections, including obtaining a valid MOT certificate and ensuring compliance with UK road regulations.

Any modifications made to meet UK standards must be declared to your insurer. This includes lighting adjustments, speedometer changes, and any other technical modifications required for UK road legality.

We work with specialist insurers who understand the true value of Romanian imports, ensuring your vehicle is correctly valued for insurance purposes.

What types of Romanian import insurance coverage do you offer?

We provide various levels of coverage to suit your needs, including comprehensive cover, third-party fire and theft, and third-party only. Our cover includes full protection for your vehicle, coverage for accident damage, fire, and theft, protection against third-party claims, optional breakdown cover, windscreen coverage, and personal effects coverage.

Transparency You Can Trust

Written and Reviewed
by Our Own Team

Every page is written and fact-checked by our UK-based insurance specialists. Chris Knott Insurance has been arranging cover since 1983.

IW
Written by
Ian Willis
Chris Knott Insurance
SC
Reviewed by
Simon Clark
Chris Knott Insurance
Chris Knott Insurance Brokers Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA Register number 304452.
Get Your Quote Today

Get Your Import Car Insurance
Quote

Every import car insurance policy is different. Speak to our specialist UK-based team and we'll arrange a quote that properly reflects your property and circumstances.

Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm
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