Duty-Free Vehicle Imports for Diplomats and Expatriates – A Comprehensive Guide by Cars Kenya

Kenya offers diplomats and expatriates the benefit of importing vehicles and personal effects duty-free, making it an attractive option for those working in international organizations and embassies. At Cars Kenya, we provide seamless support throughout this process to ensure you meet all the required regulations without the usual hassle. Here’s a detailed guide on how diplomats and expatriates can take advantage of duty-free vehicle imports.

Who Qualifies for Duty-Free Vehicle Imports in Kenya?

Diplomats and expatriates working with recognized international organizations, embassies, and consulates in Kenya are eligible for duty-free car imports. Here are some examples of the eligible bodies:

1. Foreign Embassies and Consulates
   • Embassy of Switzerland
   • German Embassy
   • Embassy of the United States
   • British High Commission
   • Embassy of Japan
2. United Nations (UN) Bodies
   • United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
   • United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
   • International Finance Corporation (IFC)
   • United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON)
   • World Food Programme (WFP)
3. African Union (AU) Bodies
   • African Union Commission (AUC) Office in Nairobi
   • Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)
   • East African Community (EAC)
4. Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)
   • International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
   • Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA)
   • Amnesty International Kenya

Steps for Importing Duty-Free Vehicles

1. Liaise with Your Protocol/Liaison Officer
   Contact the protocol or liaison officer in your organization. They will verify your eligibility for import duty exemption and help secure the necessary approvals from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2. Compliance with Vehicle Import Regulations
   All standard vehicle import regulations must be followed, including obtaining a pre-shipment inspection certificate. Ensure all documents are ready in advance so that the Form Pro 1B can be processed before your vehicle arrives in Kenya.
3. Diplomatic Registration
   Your embassy or organization will handle the issuance of diplomatic number plates once the duty exemption documents are ready.

Required Documents for Customs Clearance & Vehicle Registration

• Original PRO1B Tax Exemption Document: To be processed through your protocol officer and submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
• PIN Certificate Copy
• Valid Work Permit
• Original Diplomatic Passport: Required upon vehicle arrival in Mombasa. It will be returned after clearance, usually within 3-4 days.
• Original Vehicle Commercial Invoice: Including details of the make, model, year of manufacture, and engine number.
• KEBS Pre-Shipment Certificate of Roadworthiness: Includes details such as make, model, year of manufacture, chassis number, and engine number.
• Original Export Certificate/Logbook: Both English and Japanese versions are required.
• 3 Original Bills of Lading: Signed and endorsed at the back.
• Diplomatic Number Plates & Cover Letter from Embassy/Organization: Specifies the registration number allocated to the privileged importer or staff.
• Port and Customs Release Orders: Facilitated by Cars Kenya.

Important Notes for Duty-Free Imports

• Presence During Clearance: Since the original diplomatic passport and job card/laisser-passer are required, you must be in Kenya during the clearance process (3-5 working days) to avoid incurring additional costs such as demurrage.
• Exemption from Railway Development Levy: All duty-free imports are exempt from this levy.

How Many Duty-Free Vehicles Can You Import?
Diplomats and expatriates are eligible for a waiver on up to two vehicles—one for themselves and another for their spouse. Coordination with your protocol officer is recommended for further clarification.

Conclusion
Importing a vehicle duty-free as a diplomat or expatriate in Kenya offers significant financial benefits, and Cars Kenya is here to make the process as smooth as possible. From liaising with protocol officers to handling all customs clearance documentation, we ensure that your vehicle import experience is stress-free.

For more information or personalized assistance, visit us at Bishop Magua Centre, Ngong Road, Nairobi, or call/WhatsApp +254713147136. Let Cars Kenya handle your duty-free car import needs