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JDM Import Guide (Canada, USA, Australia & New Zealand)
Importing a JDM car isn't as complicated as it seems - as long as you know your country's rules.
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This guide breaks down the legal requirements for Japn-to-country vehicle imports in the four most common markets: Canada, USA, Australia and New Zealand.
Canada - 15-Year Rule (Easiest Country to import to)
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Canada is one of the most import-friendly countries for JDM cars.
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Legal Import Rule
A vehicle is legal to import when it is:
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15 years old from month of manufacture
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Classified as a "competition vehicle" (rare cases)
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What This Means
Any JDM car 15+ years old is fully legal to import and register.
Example: A car built November 2010 becomes import-legal in November 2025.
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Other Requirements
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Some provinces require daytime running lights (cheap & simple)​
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Why Canada Is So Popular
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Insurance is straightforward
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Low compliance costs
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Fast import timeline
United States - 25-Year Rule (Strict But Clear)
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The USA has the strictest age rule in the world, but also the simplest.
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Legal Import Rule
A vehicle is legal to import when it is:
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25 Years old from the month of manufacture
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State-Level Exceptions
Even if legal federally, some states restrict certain cars:
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California requires CARB compliance unless 1975 or older
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Some states are stricter on kei trucks
Australia - SEVS/RAWS System + 25-Year Rule
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Australia has two pathways for legal import.​​
Pathway 1: 25-Year Rule (Simplest)
Any vehicle 25 years old can be imported with no SEVS approval
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Pathway 2: SEVS (Specialist and Enthusiast Vehicle Scheme)
Any vehicle 25 years old can be imported with no SEVS approval
For Vehicles under 25 years old, they must be:
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On the SEVS eligibility list
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Processed throught a RAWS workshop before registration
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Requirements Include
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Compliance plate installation
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Modifications (child seat anchors, lights, etc.)
New Zealand - Best For Modern JDM Cars
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New Zealand is one of the easiest countries to import JDM cars into, especially modern ones.
Main Advantage
NZ allows imports of cars newer than 20 years as long as they meet NZTA standards.
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Requirements
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Vehicle must pass border inspection
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Must pass Entry Compliance Inspection (WOF requirements)
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Must meet frontal impact and emissions standards in newer
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Rust checks are strict but fair
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Good News
Even 2000s and 2010s JDM models are importable if compliant.
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Examples Commonly Imported
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Subaru WRX
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Toyota Crown Athlete
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Nessan Elgrand
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Hond Fit/Jazz
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Kei cars (commonly accepted)
Conclusion
​​Import rules vary by country, but you don't need to navigate them alone. We ensure your vehicle meets export and documentation requirements, and can recommend a trusted importer in your country to assist with local compliance, inspections and registrations.
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Our goal is a smooth and fully compliant import experience from Japan to your driveway.
