Licensed dealers of vehicles have until today to freeze the price of the registration tax on their imported stock of used cars, before the fee goes up as from January.

The EU emission level standards are changing as from the beginning of the new year, and so is the registration tax.

A spokesman for Transport Malta said this was announced in the Budget speech and importers were sent a circular as a reminder last Monday.

Dealers were informed that they can freeze the registration value and registration tax, but the payment will be deferred until the vehicle is licensed.

Transport Malta needs to be informed of any cars bought before December 21, and which will arrive in Malta by the end of January, so that they can benefit from the current rates.

The dealers need to submit the documentation, including a copy of the logbook and a form that lists the make, model, date of arrival and chassis number of each vehicle at the Vehicle Licensing Unit, Floriana between 7.30am and 3pm.

Most importers and dealers contacted by the newspaper said they would make the deadline, however, one did say he was not aware of the changes.

The spokesman said those who would not be able to submit the documentation by today need to contact Transport Malta immediately on 2122 2203. The authority is taking this precaution to avoid abuse.

The European Commission regulations 459/2012 and 692/2008 are an incentive to register newer, cleaner cars, that is, vehicles with lower emissions.

The Euro standards are tied to the registration tax.  Used imported Euro 5a or 6a vehicles (manufactured between 2011 and 2013) or lower will pay a higher registration tax.

Meanwhile, as from January, before a used motor vehicle brought into Malta can be registered, TM will send the chassis number to the Police, who will check whether it is reported stolen or not. The administration fee will therefore be increased from €50 to €55.