Registering a car in Europe as a non-resident can feel like navigating a maze of rules, red tape, and outdated bureaucracy. At MyGermanCar, we’ve spent years solving this exact problem for expats, digital nomads, and travellers who want the freedom of owning a European-registered car — without having to live there full-time or set up a company.
There are a few possible routes across Europe, but not all are practical, legal long-term, or worth the hassle. Here's a breakdown of the four most common options — with Germany at the top for simplicity, flexibility, and transparency.
1. Germany — Our Clear Recommendation
Traditionally, registering a car in Germany required proof of local residency (Anmeldung) and a German address. For non-residents, the only option used to be temporary export plates — expensive, limited to 6–12 months, and almost impossible to insure comprehensively.
That’s exactly the problem MyGermanCar solves.
We provide:
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A German registration address
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A legal framework that allows you to own the car as a non-resident
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Full setup including insurance, tax handling, and official vehicle registration
You remain the legal owner of the car. MyGermanCar holds the vehicle as your representative in Germany, enabling you to register and insure it properly, even if you're not in the EU.
🛠️ How It Works:
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You choose or supply the vehicle
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We register it in Germany on your behalf
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We handle all correspondence, paperwork, and ongoing requirements
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You’re free to drive across the EU with a fully legal, insured vehicle
💶 Transparent Pricing:
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Our EuroDrive Plan is just €99/month This covers:
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Ongoing registration
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Document handling
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Annual support
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Insurance and tax are quoted separately and clearly, based on your vehicle and driving needs
You don’t need to set up a company, learn the language, or jump through bureaucratic hoops. And we’re building out a network of TÜV partners across Europe so you don’t need to return to Germany for inspections.
Germany offers unmatched road infrastructure, high resale values, and legal certainty — making it the smartest base for foreign car ownership in Europe.
2. Andorra — Tourist Plates, But New Hurdles
Andorra was once a hidden gem for non-resident vehicle registration. Foreigners could register cars under “MT” tourist plates, with relatively few restrictions. But in recent years, the process has tightened.
Today:
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Vehicles must be 2016 or newer
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Self-converted campervans face tougher approval
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Vehicles purchased outside Andorra must be imported, triggering added costs
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You can’t resell the vehicle to another non-resident once it’s registered
And while MT plates still exist, this option now involves uncertain resale, import headaches, and restricted resale value. For short-term or region-bound travellers, it may still appeal — but for long-term legal ownership across the EU, it’s no longer ideal.
3. France — Expensive and Limited to Motorhomes
France requires you to open a French company if you want to register a vehicle without residency. The vehicle must be a campervan and is treated legally as your mobile residence (bien meuble).
Issues include:
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High costs (commonly €5,000+ all-in)
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No guarantees — even after setup, registration is not assured
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Only works for motorhomes, not regular cars or vans
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Best suited for people buying brand-new vehicles inside France
It’s legal, but bureaucratic, expensive, and limited in scope.
4. Bulgaria — Company Formation with Legal Uncertainty
Bulgaria is another route explored by non-residents. The system involves:
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Forming a Bulgarian company
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Registering the car under the company’s name
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Driving the car to Bulgaria for initial registration and annual technical checks
It’s affordable on paper — around €800 for company setup — but things can go wrong quickly:
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Paperwork often gets stuck in court approvals (especially when notarized outside Bulgaria)
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Language barriers and legal inconsistencies are common
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You’ll be required to visit Bulgaria repeatedly for documents, inspections, and updates
For those willing to base themselves in the region and work closely with local lawyers, this can be viable — but for most, the process is slow, frustrating, and uncertain.
🏁 The Verdict: Germany Is the Best Long-Term Option — and We Make It Easy
If you're looking for a legal, straightforward, and long-term solution to registering a vehicle in Europe without residency, Germany is the clear winner — and MyGermanCar makes it possible.
Unlike complex company structures or high-cost setups, we offer:
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Clear pricing with no hidden extras
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No need to be in Germany to get started
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Full control and ownership of your car
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Ongoing support, compliance, and documentation
Whether you're a digital nomad, part-time resident, or frequent European traveller, MyGermanCar gives you the freedom to drive legally and confidently — all from just €99/month with our EuroDrive Plan.