What is the age limit for importing Japanese cars to Mauritius?

Max 5 years — very strictly enforced

Import Japanese Car to Mauritius — Complete Guide 2026

Q: What documents do I need to import a car from Japan to Mauritius?

JEVIC Inspection Certificate, Export Certificate, Bill of Lading, Invoice, Insurance, NTA customs entry

Age Limit

Max 5 years

Manufactured 2021 or later

Import Duty

~65% total

~55–80%: customs duty 15–30% + VAT 15% + excise duty + registration fee

Steering Side

LHD

Mauritius drives on the left — but most imported vehicles are LHD Japanese models.

Transit Time

18–22 days

From Japanese port to Mauritius

⚠️ Age Compliance Checker

Select your vehicle's manufacture year to check if it meets Mauritius's 5-year age limit:

📍 Entry Ports

🚢 Port Louis (main port)

📋 Required Documents

📄JEVIC Inspection Certificate

📄Export Certificate

📄Bill of Lading

📄Invoice

📄Insurance

📄NTA customs entry

🗂 Step-by-Step Import Process

Select vehicle under 5 years

Get JEVIC inspection

Ship to Port Louis

NTA (National Transport Authority) customs clearance

Pay all duties

TEC vehicle examination

💰 Import Duty & Taxes

~55–80%: customs duty 15–30% + VAT 15% + excise duty + registration fee

⚠️ 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 Mauritius before committing to a purchase.

🚫 Restrictions & Banned Vehicles

⛔5-year limit strictly enforced

⛔Engine capacity limits for certain vehicle categories

🔍 Pre-shipment Inspection

JEVIC inspection required. TEC (Transport Equipment Certification) on arrival.

🛡️ 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-Mauritius 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 Mauritius

Mauritius is very strict on the 5-year rule. The excise duty on larger engine vehicles is extremely high. Hybrid and small-engine vehicles are most popular here.