Thinking of moving back to Kenya or settling in as a diplomat? You may be eligible for duty exemptions on your items, and most importantly your car! But before you pack everything up, it’s important to know the timelines and rules around these exemptions.

Kenya offers great duty relief options, but there are some key conditions and deadlines you’ll need to meet to enjoy those benefits without any hiccups. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect, how much time you have, and what you need to keep in mind as a returning resident or accredited diplomat.

For Returning Residents (Kenyans moving back home)

✅ Eligibility

• Must have lived abroad for at least 2 consecutive years .
• Eligible to import personal effects and household items, including one personal-use motor vehicle (non-commercial).

⏳ Time Limit

• Goods must be imported within 90 days of arrival in Kenya.
• You may apply for an extension of another 90 days , with valid reasons and KRA approval.

Special Case: 
If you lived in a left-hand drive country, you’re allowed to import a right-hand drive vehicle instead, as long as it’s done within the 90-day window .

Requirements

• Proof of stay abroad (passport stamps, residency/work/study documents).
• Proof of ownership and use of goods for at least 12 months.
• Declare items at the point of entry.
• Goods must be for personal use only.

 For Diplomats Posted to Kenya 

✅ Eligibility

• Posted under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations .
• Entitled to duty-free importation of official and personal-use items.

⏳ Time Limit

• Typically, items must be imported within 90 days of first arrival or accreditation.
•   Contract-Based Exceptions : Some diplomats may have up to 365 days, depending on their contract and terms. 
    It is important to confirm with your employer or embassy before shipping.
• Rare extensions may be granted via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and KRA .

Requirements

• Valid diplomatic ID issued by the MFA.
• Accreditation by the host government.
• Official diplomatic note requesting exemption.
• Goods must be for official or personal use only, not for resale.

Here are Some Final Tips

• Plan early: Shipping and clearance can eat into your time window.
• Double-check your contract (especially for diplomats).
• Keep all documentation: shipping manifests, receipts, proof of ownership.
• Talk to a clearing agent or KRA early to avoid last-minute issues.

Moving to Kenya can be a less tedious process once you know how to go through the due process. Reach out to Zorro Car Imports today, and let's help you get your car where you are.