Kenya Vehicle Import Requirements
Kenya allows importation of used vehicles but enforces strict regulations to ensure road safety and environmental standards. Understanding these requirements before purchasing your vehicle abroad is essential for a smooth import process.
Key Import Requirements
- Right-Hand Drive (RHD) Only: Kenya permits only Right-Hand Drive vehicles. Left-Hand Drive vehicles are prohibited regardless of age, condition, or origin.
- Maximum Age: Used passenger vehicles must not exceed 8 years from the year of manufacture at the time of import.
- QISJ Inspection Certificate: All vehicles must have a valid pre-shipment inspection certificate from QISJ (Quality Inspection Services Japan) or approved equivalent.
- NTSA Registration: All vehicles must be registered with the National Transport and Safety Authority before road use in Kenya.
Warning: Left-Hand Drive vehicles are strictly prohibited in Kenya. This rule is enforced regardless of whether the vehicle was converted, modified, or purchased at a bargain price. Attempting to import an LHD vehicle will result in rejection at Mombasa port.
Vehicle Types You Can Import
- Passenger vehicles (saloon cars, sedans)
- Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and 4x4 vehicles
- Pickup trucks (bakkies) and light commercial vehicles
- Vans and minibuses
- Trucks and heavy commercial vehicles (different age limits apply)
- Motorcycles (must comply with NTSA standards)
Import Duties & Taxes (2026)
Kenya imposes multiple taxes on imported vehicles. The total landed cost depends on the customs value (CIF) of the vehicle, engine capacity, and fuel type.
| Charge | Rate | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Import Duty | 35% | CIF value (all vehicles regardless of engine size) |
| Excise Duty (Small engines) | 20% | CIF + Import Duty - engines below 1500cc |
| Excise Duty (Medium engines) | 25% | CIF + Import Duty - engines 1500-3000cc (petrol) / 1500-2500cc (diesel) |
| Excise Duty (Large engines) | 35% | CIF + Import Duty - engines above 3000cc (petrol) / above 2500cc (diesel) |
| VAT | 16% | CIF + Import Duty + Excise Duty |
| IDF Fee | 2.25% | CIF value (minimum USD 50) |
| KEBS Surcharge | 5% | Only if QISJ certificate not provided (local inspection required) |
Cost-Saving Tip: Always obtain a QISJ inspection certificate before shipping. The 5% KEBS surcharge for local inspection can add thousands of shillings to your import costs. Kenya Tradex coordinates QISJ inspections for all major markets.
Free Download: Get our complete Vehicle Import to Kenya Checklist — includes duty calculation templates, document checklist, and step-by-step timeline. Download PDF →
Popular Import Markets
Kenya imports vehicles from several established markets. Each offers different advantages in terms of vehicle selection, pricing, and transit times.
Japan
Most popular market. Known for low mileage, high-quality vehicles at competitive prices. Extensive selection of Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Subaru, Mazda.
United Arab Emirates
Fast shipping and access to 4x4 vehicles, SUVs, and desert-ready vehicles. Popular models include Toyota Land Cruiser, Nissan Patrol, Lexus.
United Kingdom
Quality vehicles including luxury cars and commercial vehicles. Note: Only Right-Hand Drive vehicles are permitted.
South Africa
Short transit time and no language barriers. Already RHD. Popular for SUVs, bakkies (pickups), and commercial vehicles.
Buyer Beware: Be cautious when purchasing from Dubai markets. Accident-repaired vehicles are common, and some sellers may not disclose damage history. Always request a pre-purchase inspection report before committing to a purchase. Kenya Tradex can arrange independent inspections at origin.
Import Process Step-by-Step
Importing a vehicle to Kenya involves several stages. Here's what to expect from purchase to delivery:
Step 1: Purchase Your Vehicle
Buy your Right-Hand Drive vehicle from Japan, UAE, UK, South Africa, or other approved markets. Ensure the vehicle is under 8 years old. Obtain the original logbook, purchase invoice, and service records. Be cautious of accident-repaired vehicles, especially from markets like Dubai.
Step 2: Book QISJ Inspection
Arrange pre-shipment inspection with QISJ (Quality Inspection Services Japan) or approved equivalent. The inspection verifies vehicle condition, mileage accuracy, and accident history. A valid QISJ certificate is mandatory for smooth Mombasa customs clearance and avoids the 5% KEBS surcharge.
Step 3: Arrange Shipping
Book shipping through Kenya Tradex. Choose Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) for cost-effective transport of single vehicles, or container shipping for better protection.
Step 4: Obtain KRA Import Declaration Form
Kenya Tradex applies for your KRA Import Declaration Form (IDF) before cargo arrives at Mombasa. The IDF is mandatory for all vehicle imports and requires your KRA PIN number. Note: Export certificate of origin is NOT required for Kenya imports.
Step 5: Mombasa Customs Clearance
Upon vessel arrival, submit all documentation to Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) at Mombasa Port. Pay applicable import duty (35%), excise duty (20-35%), VAT (16%), and IDF fees (2.25%). Present your QISJ certificate to avoid the KEBS 5% local inspection surcharge.
Step 6: NTSA Registration & Delivery
Register your vehicle with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) for road use. Kenya Tradex handles NTSA registration and delivers your vehicle to Nairobi, Kampala, Kigali, or your preferred East African destination.
RoRo vs Container Shipping
Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) Shipping
How it works: Vehicle is driven onto a specialized vessel and secured in place. Most common method for single vehicles.
Cost: USD 1,500 - 3,500 per vehicle
Pros: Most cost-effective option, faster processing, widely available from Japan, UAE, and Europe.
Cons: Limited protection from elements, vehicle exposed to weather during voyage.
Container Shipping
How it works: Vehicle is loaded into a 20ft or 40ft container and sealed. Container can hold 1-2 vehicles depending on size.
Cost: USD 2,500 - 5,500 per container
Pros: Better protection from elements, can include personal effects with vehicle, lower risk of damage.
Cons: More expensive than RoRo, less space-efficient for single vehicles.
Recommendation: For standard vehicles under USD 15,000 value, RoRo is usually sufficient. For high-value vehicles (luxury cars, classic cars, or vehicles over USD 25,000), container shipping offers better protection. Kenya Tradex helps you choose the best option based on your vehicle value, budget, and timeline.
Required Documents
Having the correct documentation ensures smooth customs clearance at Mombasa Port:
- Original Bill of Lading (B/L): Issued by the shipping line confirming cargo receipt
- Commercial Invoice: Shows vehicle value, make, model, and specifications
- Packing List: Details of packaged items (vehicle + any accessories)
- Original Logbook/Title: Vehicle ownership document from country of origin
- QISJ Inspection Certificate: Pre-shipment inspection verification
- KRA Import Declaration Form (IDF): Obtained through Kenya Tradex
Note: Export certificate of origin is NOT required for importing vehicles to Kenya. Kenya Tradex handles all customs documentation on your behalf.
Total Import Costs
Understanding the full cost of importing a vehicle helps you budget accurately. Here's a breakdown:
| Cost Component | Typical Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Ocean Freight (RoRo - per vehicle) | USD 1,500 - 3,500 |
| Ocean Freight (Container - per vehicle) | USD 2,500 - 5,500 |
| Mombasa Port Charges (per vehicle) | USD 150 - 500 |
| Customs Brokerage Fee | USD 150 - 300 |
| Transport to Nairobi/Destination | USD 200 - 500 |
| NTSA Registration | USD 100 - 200 |
NTSA Registration Fees (Estimated)
- Vehicle Inspection Fee: KES 1,000 - 2,000
- Number Plate Fee: KES 3,000 - 5,000
- Logbook Fee: KES 2,500 - 4,000
- Registration Certificate: KES 500 - 1,000
Need an Accurate Cost Estimate?
Use our Import Duty Calculator for instant estimates based on your specific vehicle value and engine specifications.
Calculate Import CostsLooking to Buy Locally Instead?
If importing a vehicle seems too complex or you're looking for quicker options, consider browsing Magari Deals — Kenya's trusted marketplace for quality used cars. You can find locally available vehicles with transparent pricing, verified sellers, and the convenience of immediate inspection and purchase without the import process.
Whether you choose to import or buy locally, Kenya Tradex is here to help with all your vehicle needs.
Browse Magari Deals →Frequently Asked Questions
Can I import a used car to Kenya?
Yes, you can import a used car to Kenya, but only Right-Hand Drive vehicles are permitted. Left-Hand Drive vehicles are not allowed regardless of age. Used vehicles must be under 8 years old from year of manufacture and require a valid QISJ inspection certificate.
What is the import duty for vehicles in Kenya?
Kenya charges 35% import duty on the customs value for all vehicles, regardless of engine capacity. Additional charges include Excise duty (20-35% based on engine cc and fuel type), VAT (16%), IDF fee (2.25%), and KEBS surcharge (5% if no QISJ certificate).
How long does it take to import a car to Kenya?
Shipping time varies by origin: Japan 20-30 days, UAE 7-12 days, UK 20-30 days, South Africa 7-14 days. Mombasa customs clearance takes 3-7 days. Total process: 3-6 weeks depending on origin and documentation readiness.
What is QISJ inspection and why is it required?
QISJ (Quality Inspection Services Japan) provides pre-shipment vehicle inspections that verify condition, mileage, and accident history. A valid QISJ certificate is required for Mombasa customs clearance. Without it, KEBS charges a 5% local inspection surcharge.
Can returning residents import a vehicle duty-free to Kenya?
Yes, Kenyan citizens residing abroad for 12+ months may qualify for duty-free import. Requirements: vehicle owned abroad 12+ months, return to Kenya within 3 months, and not spent more than 90 days in Kenya during the 12-month abroad period.
What documents are needed to import a vehicle to Kenya?
Required documents: Original Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, KRA Import Declaration Form (IDF), Original Logbook/Title, and QISJ inspection certificate. Note: Export certificate of origin is not required.
What vehicles can I import to Kenya?
Kenya allows import of Right-Hand Drive passenger vehicles, SUVs, 4x4s, pickups, vans, minibuses, trucks, and motorcycles. All vehicles must be under 8 years old. Left-Hand Drive vehicles are prohibited regardless of age or condition.
How much does it cost to import a car to Kenya?
Total import costs include: shipping (USD 1,500-3,500 for RoRo), import duty (35% of CIF), excise duty (20-35%), VAT (16%), IDF (2.25%), port charges (USD 150-500), and NTSA registration. Use Kenya Tradex's import duty calculator for estimates.
Ready to Import Your Vehicle to Kenya?
Kenya Tradex handles complete vehicle imports from Japan, UAE, UK, and South Africa. Get a comprehensive quote including shipping, customs clearance, and door-to-door delivery.
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