Customs
Car customs in Georgia 2026: the new excise rules explained
In 2026 the Georgian government first discussed banning the import of cars older than 6 years, but after strong public opposition the ban was dropped. Instead, older cars now pay triple excise. Here are the exact 2026 rates.
New excise rates by age
- Under 6 years (petrol): 1.50 GEL per cubic centimetre of engine displacement
- Over 6 years (petrol): 4.50 GEL per cc — three times higher
- Hybrid under 6 years (2020 or newer): 0.90 GEL per cc — 60% of the petrol rate
- Hybrid over 6 years: 2.70 GEL per cc
- Electric (left-hand drive): 0 excise
- Electric (right-hand drive): fixed 3,000 GEL
- Right-hand drive (any): 3× the excise of a left-hand-drive equivalent
- Over 40 years old: fixed 500 GEL
What this means in numbers
A 2,000 cc petrol engine:
- Under 6 years: 2000 × 1.50 = 3,000 GEL excise
- Over 6 years: 2000 × 4.50 = 9,000 GEL excise
- Hybrid under 6 years: 2000 × 0.90 = 1,800 GEL excise
A 6,000 GEL difference. In many cases a slightly newer car (under 6 years) is cheaper overall, even when its auction price is higher.
Other fixed charges
- VAT: 18% (on car value plus shipping)
- Customs service fee: 150 GEL
- Registration: 200–400 GEL
- Expert evaluation: 30 GEL / Declaration: 50 GEL
For the exact amount on your specific car use the calculator or see the customs page.
What changes for the buyer
The key takeaway: engine size and age now matter far more. Large engines (3.5L V6) and cars over 6 years old became much more expensive. The smart picks are newer, smaller-engine, hybrid or electric models.
Tax rules can change. For an exact, up-to-date estimate contact us or get a quote.
Frequently asked questions
Was importing cars older than 6 years banned?
No. A ban was discussed but dropped. Cars over 6 years instead pay triple excise (4.50 GEL per cc). Importing is still legal.
What is the excise in 2026?
Petrol under 6 years — 1.50 GEL/cc; over 6 years — 4.50 GEL/cc; hybrid over 6 years — 2.70 GEL/cc; left-hand-drive EV — 0.
Do electric cars pay excise?
Left-hand-drive EVs — no (0). Right-hand-drive EVs — a fixed 3,000 GEL.
What excise does a hybrid pay?
A hybrid from 2020 or newer (under 6 years) pays 0.90 GEL/cc — 60% of the petrol rate (1.50). Over 6 years it is 2.70 GEL/cc. Right-hand-drive hybrids pay 3× as much.