Updated July 2025: 25% Import Duty (reduced from 35%) + 20% Excise (≤1500cc) or 25% (>1500cc) + 16% VAT compounded + 3.5% IDF (raised from 2.25%) + 2% RDL. Total typically 60-90% of CRSP-based customs value. EV preferential: 25% duty + 10% excise.
⚠️ Important: Duty rates change regularly. The figures above are based on 2026 rates and are for guidance only. Always confirm current rates with a licensed customs agent or freight forwarder in Kenya before committing to a purchase.
Is the duty info up to date?
Thanks — we'll review.
🧮 Live Landed-Cost Calculator
Estimate the total cost of importing a Japanese car to Kenya — including auction price, shipping, duty & taxes — in your local currency. Live FX rates updated daily.
Estimate only. Actual cost depends on auction fees, current FX, port charges, and customs valuation. Always confirm with a licensed broker before purchase.
🤖 AI Import Advisor
Tell us the car you're considering and our AI will give you an honest assessment specific to Kenya's rules — whether to import it, what to verify, and what to watch for.
Your inquiry is sent to Google Gemini AI for analysis. Don't include personal information. Free to use, 5 queries per hour.
AI-generated guidance — not a substitute for a licensed customs broker. Verify auction sheet, current duty rates, and import permits before purchase.
Something went wrong.
🚫 Restrictions & Banned Vehicles
⛔LHD vehicles cannot be registered (except duty-free returning resident equivalents)
⛔Vehicles older than 8 years from first registration prohibited
⛔Manufacture-to-registration gap must not exceed 12 months
⛔Must originate from KEBS-approved country (Japan, UAE, UK, Thailand, Singapore, South Africa)
⛔Petrol >3000cc and diesel >2500cc face 35% duty + 35% excise (highest tier)
🔍 Pre-shipment Inspection
JEVIC OR QISJ pre-shipment inspection required. KEBS KS 1515:2000 standard.
🛡️ Safety Guide — Before You Buy
Always verify the auction sheet first. Get the original JP Sheet verification report before committing to any vehicle — confirms grade, mileage, accident history and all damage marks.
Check for flood damage. The Japanese inspector notes the word 冠水 (flood) in the auction sheet notes section. This is only visible with a full translation — never skip translation if buying for an important purpose.
Use a licensed freight forwarder who specifically handles Japan-to-Kenya imports. They know local customs requirements, common delays and documentation pitfalls.
Verify the exporter. Check the company is registered, has verifiable reviews, and provides a full paper trail including export certificate and shipping documents.
Never pay full price before the car ships. A deposit is normal — paying 100% before shipping is a major fraud risk.
Check the chassis number matches across all documents — auction sheet, export certificate, bill of lading and invoice must all carry the same number.
💡 Import Tips for Kenya
Kenya updated rates in July 2025: import duty REDUCED from 35% to 25%, but IDF INCREASED from 2.25% to 3.5%. CRSP values were also revised UPWARD in 2025 — raising the taxable base. Total cost roughly 60-90% of CRSP. KRA uses CRSP database (5,200+ models). Use kra.go.ke or calckenya.com for accurate estimates. EVs get preferential 10% excise vs 20-25% petrol.
❓ Kenya Import FAQs
Common questions buyers ask about importing Japanese cars to Kenya. Tap any question to expand.
What is the maximum age for a Japanese car import to Kenya in 2026?
In 2026, Kenya allows the import of vehicles that are a maximum of 8 years old from their year of first registration. This means only vehicles manufactured in 2019 or newer can be imported. The gap between manufacture and first registration must also not exceed 12 months.
Can I import a 2018 Toyota Vitz to Kenya in 2026?
No, you cannot import a 2018 Toyota Vitz to Kenya in 2026. The age limit for imports in 2026 is 8 years from the year of first registration, meaning only vehicles from 2019 or newer are permitted. A 2018 model would be too old.
Are there any restrictions on importing Left-Hand Drive (LHD) cars to Kenya?
Yes, Kenya strictly prohibits the registration of Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles. Only Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles are allowed, with a narrow exception for duty-free returning residents who may import an LHD vehicle under specific conditions.
How is the import duty and tax calculated for a Japanese car in Kenya?
Import duty is 25% of the Customs Retail Selling Price (CRSP), plus 20% or 25% Excise Duty depending on engine size, and 16% VAT compounded. There's also a 3.5% Import Declaration Fee (IDF) and a 2% RDL. The total tax can range from 60% to 90% of the CRSP.
What is the estimated total cost to import a 2019 Toyota Fielder to Kenya?
The total cost to import a 2019 Toyota Fielder will be approximately 60-90% of its Customs Retail Selling Price (CRSP). This includes a 25% Import Duty, 20% Excise Duty (for ≤1500cc), 16% VAT, 3.5% IDF, and 2% RDL. You can get a more precise estimate using the KRA or Calckenya websites.
Are there any additional or hidden fees when importing a car to Kenya?
Besides the standard duties and taxes, be aware of potential costs like shipping fees, pre-shipment inspection fees (if applicable, though JEVIC/QISJ are mandatory), customs clearing agent fees, and local transportation costs from Mombasa Port. It's wise to budget for these extras.
What is the process for importing a car from Japan to Kenya?
The process typically starts with selecting a vehicle that meets Kenya's age and RHD requirements. You then arrange shipping, obtain a JEVIC or QISJ Certificate of Roadworthiness, and gather all required documents like the Bill of Lading and Commercial Invoice for customs clearance at Mombasa Port.
How long does it take to ship a car from Japan to Kenya?
Shipping a car from Japan to Kenya usually takes between 28 to 45 days. This transit time is from the point of departure in Japan to arrival at Mombasa Port, the main entry point for vehicles.
Which Japanese cars are best suited for Kenyan roads and conditions?
Popular choices like the Toyota Probox, Toyota Vitz, Toyota Fielder, and Mazda Demio are well-suited due to their reliability, fuel efficiency, and availability of spare parts. These models are known to handle varied road conditions effectively.
Why are Right-Hand Drive (RHD) cars mandatory for import into Kenya?
Kenya drives on the left side of the road, making Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles the standard for safety and traffic flow. Left-Hand Drive (LHD) vehicles are prohibited from registration to ensure compliance with road regulations, except for specific returning resident exemptions.
What are the essential documents needed to import a car to Kenya?
Key documents include the Original Japanese Logbook (translated if not in English), Bill of Lading, Commercial Invoice, JEVIC or QISJ Certificate of Roadworthiness, Export Certificate, Import Declaration Form (IDF), your KRA PIN, and an Insurance Certificate.
What are common mistakes to avoid when preparing import documents for Kenya?
Common mistakes include incorrect or incomplete information on the Commercial Invoice or Bill of Lading, failing to obtain the mandatory JEVIC/QISJ Certificate of Roadworthiness before shipping, or having an Export Certificate that doesn't match the vehicle details. Ensure all documents are accurate and match the vehicle's specifications.
Updated May 2026 ·AI-generated from verified Kenya import rules
🚗 Popular Japanese Cars in Kenya
Toyota ProboxToyota VitzToyota FielderMazda DemioToyota Premio
Verify the auction sheet before you import
Confirm grade, mileage and accident history before shipping to Kenya. Original record from Japan's auction database. From $7.
