The government of Kenya allows you to import a duty-free vehicle if you are a diplomat working in Kenya.
You will need to liaise with the protocol/liaison officer in your organization who will carry out the necessary checks to confirm that you are eligible for import duty exemption.
The protocol officer will also assist you in the process of getting the necessary approvals from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
You will need to select a vehicle that meets the requirements for import to Kenya as stipulated by the government. Click here to view general rules and regulations for import of vehicles to Kenya.
Which documents will we require for vehicle clearance in Mombasa?
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Scanned copy of approved PRO 1B form: This is the application form for authority to import a duty-free vehicle by entitled foreign personnel in Kenya. The protocol/liaison officer in your organization will assist you in submitting this to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Download Blank PRO 1B Form - Copy of KRA PIN Certificate: You can apply for this via the KRA iTax Website.
- Original Diplomatic Passport & Diplomatic ID: We will only require this once the vehicle arrives in Mombasa. We will return them to you immediately after the vehicle has been cleared (approx. 3-4 days).
Which documents will we provide for your exemption application?
Once the vehicle has left Japan, we will email you copies of the following documents to facilitate your application for import duty exemption:
- Scanned copy of the Bill of Lading.
- Scanned copy of the Roadworthiness Inspection (QISJ) Certificate.
- Vehicle Sales Invoice.
- Scanned copy of the Export Certificate.
How many duty-free vehicles can you import?
You can generally get a waiver for up to 2 vehicles (one for yourself and another for your spouse). Please liaise with your protocol officer for specific confirmation regarding your status.
Why import with CarImports.co.ke?
- End-to-End Service: We handle everything from sourcing in Japan/UK, shipping, duty-free clearance in Mombasa, car carrier transport to Nairobi, and facilitation of red plate registration.
- Low Prices: We source directly from Japanese car auctions, cutting out dealer margins. This ensures you buy at a price that often allows for resale at a profit later.
- Genuine Condition: We only recommend vehicles rated Condition 4 or higher and provide the original auction sheet for full transparency on the car's history.
- Flexible Payments: Pay in 4 installments spread over the 45-day import period. The final payment is only due after you receive and verify the vehicle in Nairobi.
- 45 Days Free Storage: We have a partnership with Mitchell Cotts (MT2 CFS) in Mombasa offering 45 days of free storage, giving you peace of mind if you are traveling when the car arrives.
- Proven Track Record: We serve clients from major organizations including the World Bank (IFC), UNHCR, UNDRR, IFAD, ICRAF, UNEP, WHO, EU, and various Embassies (France, Germany, etc.). We are happy to provide references.