- Age Limit: Only vehicles first registered in 2018 or later are eligible due to the 8-year age rule.
- Taxes and Fees: Expect costs to exceed 200% of the car’s CIF value, including:
- 35% Import Duty
- 20-25% Excise Duty (based on engine size)
- 16% VAT
- Additional fees like Railway Development Levy (2%) and Import Declaration Fee (3.5%).
- Required Documents: Key paperwork includes the original logbook, commercial invoice, Certificate of Conformity (CoC), and more.
- Inspection: All vehicles must pass pre-shipment inspections for roadworthiness and emissions compliance.
- Right-Hand Drive (RHD): Only RHD vehicles are allowed, with exceptions for special-purpose vehicles.
- Port Clearance: Clearance involves pre-arrival documentation, customs processing, and vehicle collection.
Quick Cost Example:
For a vehicle priced at 1,000,000 KES with an engine over 1500cc, the total import cost could reach 2,012,100 KES (201% of CIF).
Pro Tips for a Smooth Process:
- Choose vehicles closer to the 8-year limit to reduce costs.
- Opt for engines ≤1500cc to lower excise duty.
- Work with KEBS-approved exporters and hire licensed clearing agents.
Follow these steps to stay compliant and avoid delays. Ready to dive into the details? Keep reading.
How to Calculate KRA Car Duty: Kenya Car Import Duty Calculation Guide
What is the vehicle age limit for imports in 2025?
Starting January 2025, Kenya will enforce an 8-year age limit for imported used vehicles as part of its automotive policies. This means only vehicles first registered in 2018 or later will be allowed, with the age calculated from the original registration date. These rules align with the compliance guidelines outlined in our documentation section [1].
Registration year limits
Under these regulations, vehicles must have a first registration date of January 1, 2018, or later to be eligible for import. The age calculation is based on the initial registration date, not the manufacturing date, and applies at the time the vehicle arrives in Kenya [1].
Exceptions to the age limit
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) enforces these rules strictly for all importers, including private buyers, dealers, and diplomatic staff [2]. Vehicles that fail to meet the age requirement will be rejected at the port, with all associated costs falling on the importer [1][2].
What taxes and fees are involved in importing used cars?
Bringing a used car into Kenya comes with several required taxes and fees that can significantly increase the overall cost. The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) determines these charges based on the vehicle’s Current Retail Selling Price (CRSP), taking into account factors like depreciation and market value.
Taxes and Fees Breakdown
Here’s a summary of the key taxes and fees you’ll encounter when importing a used car to Kenya:
| Tax/Fee Type | Rate | Calculation Base |
|---|---|---|
| Import Duty | 35% | Vehicle’s value (Cost, Insurance, Freight – CIF) |
| Excise Duty | 20% or 25% | – For engines ≤1500cc: 20% of (CIF + Import Duty) – For engines >1500cc: 25% of (CIF + Import Duty) |
| Value Added Tax (VAT) | 16% | CIF + Import Duty + Excise Duty |
| Railway Development Levy (RDL) | 2% | CIF value |
| Import Declaration Fee (IDF) | 3.5% | CIF value |
These taxes, along with the 8-year age restriction for imported vehicles, can double or even triple the car’s CIF value.
For example, let’s calculate the total cost of importing a vehicle priced at 1,000,000 KES with an engine capacity over 1500cc:
- Import Duty: 350,000 KES
- Excise Duty: 337,500 KES
- VAT: 269,600 KES
- RDL + IDF: 55,000 KES
- Total: 2,012,100 KES (201% of the original CIF value)
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the taxes listed above, you’ll also need to budget for:
- Pre-shipment inspection fees
- Port handling charges
- Clearing agent fees (typically 10-20% of CIF value)
- Registration fees
- Mandatory insurance
Tips to Manage Costs
To keep expenses under control, you can:
- Opt for vehicles with engine capacities under 1500cc to benefit from the lower excise duty rate (20%).
- Choose newer models closer to the 8-year limit to make the most of depreciation.
- Strategize your import timing to avoid potential tax hikes [3][5].
These steps can help reduce the financial burden of importing a used car into Kenya.
What documents are needed to import a vehicle?
To import a vehicle, you’ll need the following:
- Original logbook: Must be canceled in the vehicle’s country of origin.
- Commercial invoice: Should include detailed vehicle specifications.
- Bill of lading: Valid until the vehicle is delivered.
- Certificate of Conformity (CoC): Valid for 90 days.
- Import Declaration Form (IDF): Processed through TradeNet.
- Roadworthiness certificate: Valid for 60 days.
- KRA Customs Entry Form: Required for customs clearance.
Having these documents ready is crucial for a smooth port clearance process (more on this later).
Where to get certifications
- Certificate of Conformity (CoC): Reach out to KEBS-authorized inspection agencies in the vehicle’s export country.
- Import Declaration Form (IDF): Apply through the Kenya TradeNet System. This involves a 3.5% fee and typically takes 2-3 days to process.
For electric or hybrid vehicles, you’ll need extra paperwork, including battery certifications.
Important: Ensure all documents are valid at the time of import and comply with KEBS and KRA regulations [1][4].
How does the vehicle inspection process work?
Before shipping, vehicles must pass mandatory inspections to meet Kenyan standards and regulations. Starting in 2025, all vehicles will need a detailed pre-shipment inspection.
Pre-shipment and roadworthiness checks
Inspections are carried out by KEBS-approved agencies in the exporter’s country. These checks, which usually take 3-5 business days, include:
- Examining engine condition and performance
- Assessing body structure and overall integrity
- Verifying safety features like brakes and airbags
- Testing emissions
- Confirming documentation accuracy
- For electric/hybrid vehicles: checking battery health, drivetrain, and charging compatibility
After passing, a Certificate of Roadworthiness (CoR) is issued [1].
KEBS compliance requirements
The Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) enforces regulations based on the KS 1515:2000 Kenya Standard Code of Practice. Key areas of focus include:
- Fully functional safety systems (e.g., brakes, seat belts, airbags)
- Absence of major structural damage
- Meeting emissions standards
If a vehicle fails, the issues must be fixed before requesting a re-inspection [1][2].
KEBS-approved agencies like JEVIC and QISJ handle these inspections, with fees starting at $145 or 0.6% of the FOB value [6].
Once inspections are complete, the next step is port clearance.
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What are the steps to clear a vehicle at the port?
After completing pre-shipment inspections, vehicles go through a three-step process for port clearance:
Customs clearance steps
The clearance process involves three main stages:
-
Pre-arrival Documentation
- Submit IDF/PVoC through iCMS (1-2 days)
- Provide the invoice, CoC, and KRA PIN (2-3 days)
- Present the release order (1 day)
-
Port Arrival Processing
Once pre-arrival documents are submitted, you must:- Notify Kenya Ports Authority
- File a customs declaration
- Pay the required duties
- Complete a customs inspection
-
Vehicle Collection
After verification, secure your release order, pay port handling fees, and collect your vehicle.
Role of clearing agents
Hiring a licensed clearing agent is highly recommended when importing vehicles into Kenya. These agents handle:
- Preparing and submitting required documents
- Communicating with customs officials and port authorities
- Calculating duties and taxes accurately
- Resolving any issues during the clearance process
Expected timelines and delays
With all documents in order, the clearance process usually takes 3-5 working days. However, delays can happen due to:
- Port congestion (adds 2-5 days)
- Documentation errors (adds 2-3 days)
- Payment processing delays (adds 1-2 days)
- Physical inspections (adds 1-2 days)
Storage Fee Structure 2025:
Storage fees begin after 4 free days:
- Days 5-8: KES 2,000/day
- Days 9-14: KES 3,000/day
- After 14 days: KES 5,000/day
To avoid delays and extra costs, double-check that all documents are accurate and complete before your vehicle arrives [1][2].
Are there restrictions on vehicle types or features?
Kenya has specific rules about the types and configurations of vehicles that can be imported. These go beyond just age and cost, focusing on safety and compliance. One key requirement is that vehicles must conform to the Right-Hand Drive (RHD) system, with a few exceptions outlined below.
Right-hand drive policy
Imported vehicles must be Right-Hand Drive to align with Kenya’s left-hand traffic system. This ensures compatibility with local driving conditions.
Banned vehicle types
Certain vehicles are not allowed for importation into Kenya:
| Vehicle Category | Restriction Details |
|---|---|
| LHD vehicles | Left-Hand Drive vehicles are banned, except for approved donations. |
| Structurally damaged vehicles | Vehicles with significant structural damage are prohibited. |
| Non-compliant vehicles | Vehicles that fail to meet KS 1515:2000 standards cannot be imported. |
These restrictions work alongside the previously mentioned age limits and tax policies, making it essential to consider all factors for compliance.
Exceptions
- Special purpose vehicles: Ambulances, fire engines, and some construction vehicles may be exempt from the RHD requirement if they are government donations [6].
- Diplomatic vehicles: Diplomatic staff may receive specific exemptions, but only with proper authorization.
- Commercial vehicles: These must adhere to strict safety and emissions standards to qualify for import.
Tips for a Smooth Import Process
Follow these strategies to make your 2025 import process hassle-free:
Choosing a Reliable Exporter
Pick exporters with a solid track record and measurable performance standards.
| Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Licensing | KEBS-approved export licenses |
| Experience | At least 5 years working with the Kenya market |
| Services | Includes pre-shipment inspection, documentation, and shipping |
| Communication | Responsive and reliable customer service |
| Transparency | Clear quotes and straightforward payment terms |
"Don’t compromise on the quality of the vehicle or services to save money. It often leads to higher costs in the long run", says David Kimani, a seasoned car dealer [1].
Always confirm these credentials before arranging shipping. Ensure all documentation requirements are met to avoid delays.
Timing Your Import
Plan your timeline around the 3-5 day clearance period at the port. Here’s how to stay on track:
- Start preparing documents at least 4 months before the vehicle’s arrival.
- Schedule inspections 2-3 weeks before shipment.
- Account for 4-6 weeks for sea freight.
- Reserve 2-3 weeks for port clearance.
Proper timing ensures you avoid unnecessary delays and additional costs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Errors in documentation
- Miscalculating taxes
- Failing to get approved inspections
Successful importers secure their Certificate of Roadworthiness at least two weeks before shipment. This step is crucial for seamless clearance at Mombasa port. These practices align with the compliance guidelines discussed earlier [1][2].
Conclusion
Importing used vehicles into Kenya in 2025 requires careful attention to the 8-year age rule (vehicles registered in 2018 or later) and a clear understanding of the import costs, which can exceed 200% of the CIF value. By meeting the updated requirements and following the steps for documentation, inspections, and clearance, importers can successfully complete the process.
Here are the three main factors for a smooth import experience:
- Proper Documentation: Ensure all pre-shipment certifications are valid (refer to Sections 3-4 for details).
- Accurate Budgeting: Use the KRA duty calculator to estimate costs effectively.
- Expert Assistance: Licensed agents can help avoid unnecessary delays during clearance.
Stay updated with KEBS announcements to remain compliant with any changes. Partnering with KEBS-approved exporters (see Section 7) and licensed clearing agents can help minimize risks and prevent costly errors [1].
FAQs
Which car years meet Kenya’s 2025 import rules?
To comply with Kenya’s 2025 import rules, vehicles must have been first registered within 8 years of the import date. For example, if you’re importing in July 2025, the vehicle must have been registered no earlier than July 2017. More details on pre-shipment inspection requirements can be found in Section 4 [1]. Check Section 1 for exceptions to this rule.
How are import duties calculated?
Import duties include several charges based on the vehicle’s CIF value, as determined by KRA [3]. These charges are:
- 35% duty
- 20-25% excise tax (depending on engine size)
- 16% VAT
- 2% RDL
- 3.5% IDF
For a detailed example, refer to Section 2.
How old cars are allowed in Kenya?
Kenya enforces a strict 8-year age limit for imported vehicles, starting from the date of first registration. Additionally, vehicles must meet these criteria:
Can I import a car from the USA to Kenya?
Importing from the USA can be challenging due to:
- Most US vehicles being left-hand drive, which are not allowed
- Higher shipping costs and complicated compliance procedures
You might find it easier to import from right-hand drive markets like Japan, the UK, or South Africa. For more details on inspection requirements, see Section 4 [4].
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