Removal Goods & Custom Duties: Navigating a Smooth Transition (→ Finland)

Published on Aug 12 2023

Moving to a new country is an exciting endeavor, but it comes with its share of complexities. For those embarking on a journey to Finland, understanding the process of importing goods and the associated customs duties is essential. Whether you're a professional, a student, or an expatriate, this guide will provide you with comprehensive information to ensure a seamless transition. Here, we'll delve into various aspects of importing to Finland, from personal belongings to motor vehicles and pets.

Importation of Personal Belongings & Household Effects

From EU Countries: When relocating to Finland from another EU country, the process of importing personal property is relatively straightforward. In most cases, taxes and other restrictions that apply to imports are waived. There are specific exemptions, such as new means of transport, which may be subject to Value Added Tax (VAT) if they are intended for use within Finland. Certain prohibitions exist for reasons like public morality, security, or health protection for animals and plants.

From Non-EU Countries: Moving to Finland from a non-EU country involves adhering to the EU Regulation on relief from customs duty and the Finnish Value Added Tax Act. These regulations enable exemptions from customs duty and VAT for personal property, or removal goods, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include a requirement that the immigrant's permanent place of residence has been outside the EU for at least 12 months. The goods must also have been under the ownership of the immigrant or in their possession outside the EU for a minimum of 6 months. Additional criteria, such as the intended use of goods and a declaration to Customs for release within 12 months from the removal date, apply.

Importation of Motor Vehicles

Temporary Use and Tax Relief: Bringing a vehicle into Finland for registration involves temporary use and tax relief procedures. A declaration of use must be submitted to the Finnish Tax Administration before the vehicle is put into operation in Finland. This declaration is crucial and must be submitted within five days of the declaration of use confirmation. This temporary tax-free use requires compliance with specific guidelines and documentation. The Finnish Tax Administration's Car Tax section provides in-depth information about the taxation and use of vehicles.

Importation of Pets

Animal Import Regulations: Importing pets to Finland is subject to varying regulations based on species and the country of origin. Regulations differ between pets traveling alone and those accompanying their owners. Pets transported between countries generally require identification, a pet passport, and a veterinary health certificate confirming valid anti-rabies vaccination and other health details. Certain restrictions and treatments, such as anti-echinococcus treatment for dogs, are applicable.

International Pet Transportation: For those seeking professional assistance in transporting pets, Travelcargo - Pet Express offers a range of services, including air freight, customs clearance, guidance on regulations, and transportation containers. As a member of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA), Travelcargo - Pet Express ensures reliable and compliant pet transportation.

To explore pet transportation services, including air freight and customs clearance, visit Travelcargo - Pet Express's website.

Conclusion:

Importing to Finland involves navigating customs duties and adhering to specific regulations. Whether you're bringing personal belongings, motor vehicles, or pets, understanding the process is vital for a seamless transition. By utilizing the provided resources and consulting official Finnish Customs guidelines, you can embark on your journey to Finland with confidence, ensuring that your importing process is both smooth and compliant with regulations.