Nah wrong. From hmrc website Re-importing a vehicle that was previously exported You can get Returned Goods Relief for VAT and duty relief if you are importing a vehicle that was previously exported from the EU provided you meet all these conditions: the vehicle was taken outside the EU by you within the past 3 years any VAT, duty or equivalent tax had been paid on the vehicle in the EU and was not refunded when the vehicle was taken outside the EU the vehicle has had no alteration outside the EU other than necessary running repairs The vat was paid in the uk. And your just bring it back