Buy a Car in Limassol (2025): Where to Shop, What to Check, and How to Do the Paperwork

Limassol is one of Cyprus’s most car-centric cities—coastal commutes, weekend mountain trips, and family logistics all run smoother with your own wheels. This guide shows you exactly where to buy in Limassol, how to transfer ownership, and what taxes/fees to expect, with practical tips to avoid delays and surprises.

Where to buy in Limassol (trusted options)

Sam’s Motors (Limassol) – Long-running local dealer; duty-free and duty-paid cars; also supports British Forces Cyprus buyers.

Andys Motors – Established Limassol dealership (since 1989) with wide new/used selection and leasing support. Address listed locally on Omonia Ave.

Flamingo Motor Agency – Over 40 years in Limassol used-car retail; active showroom on Omonia Ave.

Elite Motors Limassol – Operating in Limassol since 1983; sells Nissan, Jaguar, Land Rover & BMW plus used stock.

Tip: shortlist 3–4 cars at two dealers and a private listing (e.g., Bazaraki). You’ll get a clear feel for price vs. mileage vs. condition in the local market.

Paperwork: how the ownership transfer works (buyer & seller)

In Cyprus, you must transfer the vehicle into your name before driving it away (or immediately after purchase if arranged at the office). For private or dealer sales, bring:

• TOM 9B form completed by both buyer and seller
• Registration certificate (logbook)
• Valid insurance certificate (policy in buyer’s name)
• Transfer fee (commonly €8.54)

Submit at a Road Transport Department (RTD) office or a Citizen Service Centre.

Practical sequence: insure the car → go together to RTD/CSC with TOM 9B and logbook → pay the fee → receive the new registration.

Taxes & recurring costs to plan for

Road tax (circulation license)

• Cyprus road tax is CO₂-based.
• The renewal window runs from early January until March 11 each year.
• After March 11, penalties apply: €10 + 10% of the due tax; police may also fine for driving without a valid license.

Import duty & excise

If you’re considering importing instead of buying locally, note that excise duty on motor vehicles was abolished in 2019 (Law 39(I)/2019). VAT and customs rules may still apply depending on origin/status.

Insurance: minimum cover to drive away

You must hold at least third-party motor insurance to drive legally and to complete the ownership transfer (the policy is checked with the TOM 9B). Many buyers obtain temporary cover for the transfer day, then finalize annual terms after inspection.

What to check before paying (save this)

Documents

• MOT (roadworthiness certificate) valid; check expiry date.
• Service history (invoices, stamps) and any recall actions.
• VIN on the chassis matches the logbook.

Condition

• Test drive for cold start, gearbox smoothness, tracking, brakes.
• Tyres (even wear, DOT dates), fluids, under-bonnet leaks.
• Consider a quick independent inspection even for dealer cars.

Costs

• Ask for the official CO₂ figure—road tax depends on it.
• Request all-in drive-away: transfer fee, plates (if needed), fresh MOT, road tax status, and any dealer warranty.

For imports

• Confirm VAT/customs status, shipping paperwork, and whether first registration in Cyprus has been completed (to avoid surprises at RTD).

Limassol-specific tips

• Parking: Central areas can be tight; check your home/office options before choosing a large SUV.
• Service access: Proximity to your chosen brand service (or a reputable independent) will save time on maintenance.
• Resale: Popular, fuel-efficient models and well-documented imports hold value better in the Limassol market.

Quick buyer’s flow (from shortlist to plates)

1. Compare dealer stock and one private listing for price sanity.
2. Run through documents (MOT, history) and do a test drive + basic inspection.
3. Get an insurance policy quoted in your name (temporary or annual).
4. Meet seller at RTD/CSC with TOM 9B, logbook, IDs → pay €8.54.
5. Pay/renew road tax if needed (watch the March 11 deadline).
6. Book a first service to baseline fluids/filters and log your ownership.

Bottom line

To buy a car in Limassol with confidence, start with reputable local dealers like Sam’s Motors, Andys Motors, Flamingo Motor Agency, and Elite Motors; verify documents; and handle the TOM 9B transfer with insurance in place. Keep an eye on CO₂-based road tax and the March 11 deadline, and confirm any import VAT/customs status before you pay.

For printable checklists, fee explainers, and import/registration guides, visit Soneverse and explore our car guide.