How to Import a Car to Kenya in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Import a Car to Kenya in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction: Why Importing a Car is Still Popular in Kenya

In 2025, importing a car from Japan, the UK, or Singapore remains one of the most popular ways for Kenyans to get reliable, high-quality vehicles. With increasing access to online portals, shipping companies, and clearing agents, the process has become more manageable than ever.

This guide walks you through the exact steps, costs, documents, and tips for importing a car into Kenya today.

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1. Decide What Car You Want

Start by researching:

• Make and model (e.g., Toyota Fielder, Nissan Note, Honda Fit)

• Year of manufacture (only vehicles 8 years old or newer allowed)

• Engine size and fuel efficiency

• Spare part availability in Kenya

Use platforms like beforward.jp, sbtjapan.com, or autotrader.uk.

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2. Calculate Import Costs

Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) charges include:

• Import Duty (25%)

• Excise Duty (20–35%)

• VAT (16%)

• Railway Development Levy (2%)

• IDF Fee (2%)

Use the KRA Duty Calculator to get an estimate based on:

• Vehicle CIF value (Cost + Insurance + Freight)

• Engine CC

• Age of vehicle

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3. Choose a Trusted Seller or Agent

Work only with:

• Licensed Japanese exporters (check online reviews)

• Car import agents in Mombasa or Nairobi

• Ask for real-time photos, auction sheets, and shipping timelines

Make sure the seller gives you a Bill of Lading, Inspection Certificate, and Invoice.

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4. Pay and Ship the Car

You’ll need to:

• Pay through bank transfer or PayPal

• Arrange for marine insurance (most exporters assist)

• Choose Port of Mombasa as delivery point

• Wait 30–45 days for shipping to complete

Your agent will help you prepare for clearance and registration.

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5. Car Clearance at Mombasa Port

Clearance steps include:

• Pay all KRA import duties

• Pre-shipment inspection by QISJ or JEVIC (mandatory)

• Register with NTSA TIMS portal

• Get your registration number and logbook

Hiring a local clearing agent can simplify this process.

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6. Register & Insure the Car

Once cleared:

• Visit NTSA for number plates and ownership details

• Buy Comprehensive or Third Party Insurance (companies like CIC, Britam, or Jubilee)

• Pay annual inspection fees if the vehicle is commercial or PSV

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7. Costs Breakdown Example (Toyota Fielder 2018)

Cost Item	Estimated Amount (KES)
Car CIF Value	850,000
Import Duty (25%)	212,500
Excise Duty (20%)	170,000
VAT (16%)	187,200
RDL + IDF	42,500
Total	1.46M Approx.

Note: Figures vary based on car age, engine CC, and exchange rates.

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8. Tips to Save Time & Money

• Choose cars with low mileage and good auction grades

• Avoid shady agents—check client reviews

• Consider using CFS (Container Freight Stations) to avoid delays

• Join Facebook groups like "Cars for Sale Kenya" for seller ratings

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9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Importing cars older than 8 years (KRA will reject)

• Not verifying auction sheet authenticity

• Paying full amount without paperwork

• Delaying clearance beyond 14 days (incurs storage fees)

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10. Final Thoughts: Is Importing a Car Worth It?

Absolutely. While the process has costs, importing often gets you:

• Better car condition than local second-hand options

• Lower prices than Kenyan showroom prices

• Full transparency on mileage and ownership

With the right agent and knowledge, importing a car in 2025 is easier than ever.

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