Thinking of importing a car into Kenya? Whe n you're buying from the international market, it’s important to understand the rules and costs involved. From the year of manufacture limits to marine insurance and port handling charges, this guide covers all the essentials for a smooth car importation process in 2025.

1. Age Limit: Year of Manufacture

Kenya only allows the importation of vehicles that are eight years old or newer from the year of first registration. For example, in 2025, you can only import vehicles manufactured in 2018 or later.

Older vehicles will not be cleared at the port and may be re-exported or destroyed at your cost.

2. Left-Hand Drive (LHD) Vehicles Not Allowed

Kenya only allows right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles. Left-hand drive cars are strictly prohibited unless imported for special use (e.g., ambulances or diplomatic vehicles with approval).

3. Roadworthiness Inspection (QISJ)

All vehicles must be inspected in the country of export before shipment. The most commonly used inspection agency is QISJ (Quality Inspection Services Japan), especially for cars from Japan. The car must pass this inspection to meet Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) regulations.

4. Marine Insurance

Marine insurance protects your vehicle during shipment and is a mandatory requirement. You can either:

• Buy it from the exporting country, or
• Get local marine insurance coverage from a Kenyan provider

This cost is factored into the CIF value (Cost, Insurance, and Freight).

5. Port Charges and Handling Fees

Once your car arrives at the Port of Mombasa, you will need to cover several charges, including:

• Port handling fees
• Storage charges (if clearance is delayed)
• Customs warehouse rent
• Clearing agent fees

* Timely clearance is essential to avoid extra daily storage charges.

6. Import Duty and Taxes

Your vehicle will be subject to various taxes and duties, including:

• Import Duty – 25% of the CIF value
• Excise Duty – 20% to 35% depending on engine capacity and vehicle type
• VAT – 16%
• Railway Development Levy (RDL) – 1.5%
• Import Declaration Fee (IDF) – 2.25%

All taxes are calculated based on the Customs Value, which is derived from the CIF.

7. Logbook and Ownership Documents

Make sure the car has a clean title or logbook from the country of origin. The documents must be handed over to your clearing agent for registration with the NTSA (National Transport and Safety Authority) once the car is cleared.

The average car importation and clearance process takes 7–14 working days if all documents are in order and port congestion is minimal.

Thinking of importing a car to Kenya in 2025?  
Contact  Zorro Car Imports today for a smooth, transparent experience.