How to Import a Car from Japan to Kenya (Full 2025 Guide)
Importing a car from Japan to Kenya is one of the smartest ways to own a reliable, low-mileage vehicle at a competitive price. Japan’s auction system is known for quality control and transparency, making it a top source for Kenyan car buyers. Yet many people hesitate because the process appears complicated — full of taxes, inspection rules, and paperwork.
In this detailed guide, Eleven Motors explains every step of how to import a car from Japan to Kenya. You’ll learn how to pick the right vehicle, pass inspections, calculate taxes, register with NTSA, and avoid costly mistakes. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to import confidently and legally in 2025.
How to import a car from Japan to Kenya
Importing a car from Japan to Kenya requires choosing a trusted exporter, verifying inspection compliance, paying CIF and KRA taxes, and completing NTSA registration once the car arrives at Mombasa port.
The process begins by identifying your ideal vehicle on a trusted marketplace like Eleven Motors Japan Imports, which lists inspected cars directly from Japan. After selecting a car, review its auction sheet for mileage and condition. Once confirmed, the exporter arranges shipping, and you prepare your documents for customs.
Kenya’s import laws ensure safety and environmental compliance. The car must not exceed eight years from its manufacture date and must be inspected by JEVIC or QISJ before shipment. When it lands at Mombasa, customs will assess taxes based on the car’s CIF value. After you clear the vehicle, register it through NTSA and collect your new number plates — your Japanese car is now road-ready in Kenya.
What documents are required to import a car from Japan to Kenya?
You need several documents to complete importation legally: the original Bill of Lading, Export Certificate (Deregistration), Commercial Invoice, and JEVIC inspection certificate. Locally, you must have your KRA PIN, National ID, and NTSA TIMS account for registration.
Each document serves a critical role. The Bill of Lading confirms shipment details, the Export Certificate proves previous ownership, and the Invoice shows the car’s value. A missing or incorrect document can delay clearance or trigger penalties, so Eleven Motors handles document verification and coordination with Japanese exporters to ensure a smooth clearance process.
How do I choose a trusted Japanese car exporter?
Work only with exporters registered under JUMVEA (Japanese Used Motor Vehicle Exporters Association) or those who provide verifiable auction sheets with grading, mileage, and service history. This ensures transparency and authenticity.
Eleven Motors partners exclusively with verified Japanese dealers who maintain high standards. Every vehicle on our Japan car listings comes with a complete inspection record. We help clients confirm the car’s real condition and arrange shipping through secure logistics networks, giving you full confidence in your purchase.
What payment options are available when importing a car?
Payments are typically made via international bank transfer to the exporter’s company account. Many exporters require 50–70% upfront after invoice confirmation and the balance before shipment. Avoid sending money to personal or unverified accounts.
Eleven Motors offers secure payment coordination — including escrow-style transactions — so your funds are protected until shipment is confirmed. Once you receive the Bill of Lading and tracking number, you can monitor your car’s journey from Japan to Mombasa in real time.
What are the requirements for importing a car from Japan?
Importing a car from Japan to Kenya requires that the vehicle meets age, safety, and emissions standards, passes JEVIC inspection, and complies with NTSA registration rules. Buyers must also hold valid identification, a KRA PIN, and a TIMS account.
To protect Kenyan consumers and ensure environmental safety, the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) enforce strict requirements on all vehicles entering the country. These cover age limits, inspection standards, and documentation. Failing to comply with even one requirement can lead to fines or rejection at Mombasa port.
Most vehicles imported through Eleven Motors already meet these requirements, making the process straightforward for buyers. We handle inspection coordination, paperwork, and shipping to help you avoid delays and costly mistakes.
What inspection is required before importing a car from Japan?
Every car imported to Kenya must undergo a mandatory pre-shipment inspection by JEVIC or QISJ in Japan. This inspection checks the car’s mechanical condition, odometer reading, structural integrity, and compliance with Kenyan safety standards.
The inspection certificate is issued before shipment and must accompany the Bill of Lading. Vehicles without a valid certificate are not allowed entry. Eleven Motors ensures all listed cars are JEVIC-certified, guaranteeing that your import passes all Kenyan quality and safety checks upon arrival.
What are the KEBS and NTSA rules for imported vehicles?
KEBS requires all imported vehicles to be right-hand drive and no older than eight years from the year of manufacture. NTSA, on the other hand, oversees registration, roadworthiness, and licensing once the car arrives.
Our import experts coordinate with both KEBS and NTSA to ensure compliance before shipment. This includes verifying that the chassis number, manufacturing date, and emission standards align with Kenyan import policies, preventing costly hold-ups during clearance.
What documents prove compliance during clearance?
Key compliance documents include the JEVIC certificate, inspection report, Export Certificate, and the original Bill of Lading. Together, these documents confirm that your car meets KEBS, KRA, and NTSA import conditions.
During customs clearance, officers will cross-check these records against your invoice and shipment details. Eleven Motors manages these submissions on behalf of clients, so your import clears smoothly and reaches you faster — often within days after vessel arrival.
How old can a car be to import to Kenya?
The maximum age limit for cars imported into Kenya is eight years from the year of manufacture. Any vehicle older than eight years is not allowed entry under Kenyan import laws enforced by KEBS and KRA.
This rule is in place to ensure that cars on Kenyan roads meet modern safety and emissions standards. The eight-year restriction applies strictly from the manufacture year, not the registration year. For instance, in 2025, only vehicles manufactured in 2018 or later are eligible for import.
Eleven Motors helps buyers confirm vehicle eligibility before purchase. Our listings only feature cars that meet Kenya’s age requirements, preventing you from buying a vehicle that will be rejected at Mombasa port.
What happens if a car is older than eight years?
If a car exceeds the eight-year age limit, it will be denied entry at the port, even if it’s in perfect condition. Customs authorities will not process clearance, and the importer must either ship it back or scrap it.
Many first-time importers lose money due to this mistake. To avoid that, Eleven Motors pre-filters all vehicle options to meet KEBS rules. You’ll only see cars that comply with Kenyan import laws, ensuring full peace of mind during the buying process.
How do I check the manufacture year before buying?
The manufacture year is shown on the Japanese Export Certificate, chassis plate, and auction sheet. It’s vital to double-check this information before completing payment.
Our import advisors help clients interpret these details and verify the year using Japanese databases. This eliminates confusion between manufacture year and registration year, which are often misrepresented by inexperienced exporters.
Why does Kenya enforce the eight-year import limit?
The main reason is to control environmental pollution, reduce maintenance risks, and promote road safety. Older vehicles tend to emit higher levels of carbon and may not meet KEBS emission standards.
By enforcing this age limit, Kenya ensures that imported cars remain safe, fuel-efficient, and environmentally friendly. Through Eleven Motors, every imported vehicle undergoes JEVIC inspection and KEBS verification before shipment to meet these national standards.
Is importing a car from Japan cheaper than buying locally?
Yes, importing a car from Japan is often 15–30% cheaper than buying the same model locally in Kenya because of direct sourcing, lower depreciation, and transparent pricing at Japanese auctions.
When you import directly, you cut out middlemen and dealership markups that typically inflate local prices. Japan’s used car market is highly competitive, with millions of well-maintained vehicles available for export at fair auction values. Most cars also have accurate mileage and verified inspection reports, giving you excellent value for money.
Eleven Motors connects Kenyan buyers directly with trusted exporters in Japan, ensuring you get high-quality vehicles at the best price — with full paperwork and delivery handled from auction to Mombasa port.
How much does it cost to import a car from Japan to Kenya?
The total cost to import a car from Japan to Kenya depends on the vehicle’s model, engine size, year, and shipping category. On average, expect to spend between KES 1.2 million and KES 3.5 million, inclusive of shipping, duty, and taxes.
For instance, a 2018 Toyota Axio or Honda Fit may cost around KES 1.3M, while a 2018 Toyota Harrier could range between KES 3M–3.5M. Eleven Motors provides detailed cost breakdowns before purchase so you know your total expense upfront — from auction bid to registration.
Is it cheaper to import a car from Japan to Kenya in 2025?
Yes, 2025 remains favorable for Japanese imports due to strong currency exchange rates and increased shipping efficiency. The yen’s current stability makes Japanese vehicles more affordable for Kenyan buyers, especially when purchased through verified auction networks.
Eleven Motors regularly updates pricing in real time to reflect the most accurate conversion rates and port fees. This transparency ensures you pay the true market rate without hidden costs or exaggerated dealership margins.
Are there additional savings when importing directly?
Absolutely. By importing directly, you save on dealership markups, avoid inflated resale margins, and gain access to a wider selection of low-mileage cars. You also receive authentic auction sheets confirming the car’s history, which boosts resale value later on.
At Eleven Motors, we guide clients through every cost component — including CIF value, import duty, excise, and VAT — so you can calculate savings precisely compared to buying locally.
How much does it cost to register an imported car in Kenya?
Registering an imported car in Kenya typically costs between KES 10,000 and KES 25,000, depending on the vehicle type, engine size, and NTSA fees. This amount is paid after customs clearance at Mombasa port and before obtaining number plates.
The registration process ensures your imported vehicle is legally recognized for use on Kenyan roads. It involves paying NTSA registration fees, road license fees, and number plate issuance costs. You must also create an NTSA TIMS account, link it to your KRA PIN, and upload all import documents before final approval.
At Eleven Motors, we help clients complete the entire registration process, ensuring their cars are licensed, insured, and ready for use immediately after port clearance.
How to register an imported car in Kenya step by step
First, log in to your NTSA TIMS account and go to the “Vehicle Registration” section. Upload your import documents — the Bill of Lading, JEVIC certificate, and Import Declaration Form (IDF). Next, NTSA will calculate your registration fees based on the car’s category.
Once approved, you’ll receive a registration number and instructions on how to pay via eCitizen or NTSA portal. Eleven Motors can handle this process for you, ensuring no errors or delays during documentation review.
What taxes apply when registering an imported car?
Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) applies three main taxes on imported vehicles: import duty (25%), excise duty (20–30%), and VAT (16%). These taxes are calculated from the CIF value — the combined cost of the car, insurance, and freight.
KRA also adds an Import Declaration Fee (2.25%) and Railway Development Levy (1.5%). These mandatory fees contribute to national infrastructure projects. Eleven Motors provides transparent tax estimates before purchase so you can budget accurately from Japan to registration.
How long does the registration process take?
Once customs clearance is complete, NTSA registration usually takes 2–5 working days if all documents are in order. This timeline includes verification, fee payment, and number plate issuance.
Eleven Motors ensures all your files are pre-verified, cutting delays that commonly occur due to missing JEVIC reports or mismatched invoices. Our clients receive their registration plates and logbooks within a week after clearance, fully ready for the road.
How long does it take to import a car from Japan to Kenya?
Importing a car from Japan to Kenya usually takes six to eight weeks from the time of purchase to delivery at Mombasa port. The duration depends on auction schedules, shipping vessel routes, inspection timelines, and customs clearance speed.
Shipping from Japan involves multiple steps: inspection, booking space on a vessel, transit by sea, and processing at Mombasa. Each stage can slightly vary, but working with a trusted partner like Eleven Motors ensures all stages are synchronized for faster delivery and minimal delays.
With direct coordination between our Japan team and Kenyan logistics partners, clients receive constant shipment updates until their car is safely cleared and ready for pickup or delivery.
How long does a car take from Japan to Kenya by sea?
Most vessels take about 27 to 35 days to sail from Japanese ports such as Yokohama or Nagoya to Mombasa. Shipping lines operate on scheduled routes, and Eleven Motors books only verified carriers to ensure reliability and cargo safety.
Transit time may vary depending on weather conditions or port congestion. However, by planning early and confirming bookings in advance, we ensure your vehicle arrives within the shortest possible time frame.
What affects the total import timeline?
The overall import duration depends on three factors: inspection clearance, vessel scheduling, and customs efficiency. Cars that pass JEVIC inspection early are shipped faster, while those delayed in inspection may miss the next vessel.
Customs clearance time in Mombasa also plays a role — typically one to three days for vehicles with complete documents. Eleven Motors handles pre-inspection and documentation before shipment to eliminate unnecessary waiting periods once the car arrives in Kenya.
Can Eleven Motors help track my shipment?
Yes. Every Eleven Motors client receives a Bill of Lading number and vessel tracking link to monitor their car’s movement in real time. We also send status updates at each stage — from loading, departure, arrival, and clearance.
This transparency gives you peace of mind knowing your car’s exact location throughout the process. Once customs and registration are complete, Eleven Motors can also arrange inland transport to Nairobi or any other Kenyan city.
What are the rules for importing cars from Japan?
The rules for importing cars from Japan to Kenya are set by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). Vehicles must be right-hand drive, no older than eight years, and JEVIC-inspected before shipment.
These regulations are designed to maintain road safety, prevent fraud, and protect consumers from substandard vehicles. Compliance with all import rules ensures your car clears customs smoothly and is legally registered for use in Kenya. Eleven Motors verifies each car’s eligibility before purchase, saving buyers from rejections or penalties at Mombasa port.
What are the main KEBS import standards?
KEBS enforces the Pre-Export Verification of Conformity (PVoC) standard, which requires all imported vehicles to pass JEVIC or QISJ inspection in Japan. The inspection covers age, emissions, safety, and mechanical integrity.
The car must also be right-hand drive, as left-hand drive imports are not allowed unless for special purposes (e.g., ambulances). At Eleven Motors, we only source vehicles that meet PVoC standards and come with official inspection certificates for smooth port clearance.
What is the KRA’s role in the import process?
KRA is responsible for determining and collecting taxes on imported vehicles. They assess Import Duty (25%), Excise Duty (20–30%), and VAT (16%) based on the vehicle’s CIF value. The total amount due depends on engine capacity, age, and type of vehicle.
Eleven Motors provides buyers with advance tax estimates using KRA’s customs valuation system, helping you plan your import budget accurately before shipment. This ensures there are no surprise charges during clearance.
What rules govern vehicle registration by NTSA?
NTSA oversees all final registration procedures, ensuring imported vehicles are roadworthy, properly licensed, and correctly assigned to their owners. Once customs clears the car, NTSA issues number plates and a logbook.
Our team assists clients through this final stage, including setting up NTSA TIMS accounts, uploading documents, and verifying ownership details. This guarantees your imported car is legally recognized and ready for road use across Kenya.
What is the 3-year rule for cars in Japan?
The 3-year rule in Japan refers to the Shaken inspection cycle, where every new car undergoes its first mandatory roadworthiness test after three years, then every two years thereafter. This strict regulation makes many Japanese owners sell cars early, creating a steady supply of well-maintained used vehicles for export.
Because Japanese roads are closely monitored, cars are often kept in excellent condition to pass these inspections. As a result, Kenyan buyers benefit from high-quality vehicles with low mileage and full maintenance records. Eleven Motors sources directly from these regulated markets to ensure you receive only the best-conditioned imports.
Why does the 3-year rule matter for Kenyan importers?
The Shaken inspection influences how soon Japanese owners sell their cars, meaning the export market is filled with 3–5-year-old vehicles that still look and perform like new. This directly benefits Kenyan importers looking for reliability and durability at lower prices.
For example, a 2019 Toyota Axio or Subaru Forester exported in 2024 still meets Kenya’s 8-year import limit while maintaining top mechanical condition. Eleven Motors strategically selects cars around this window for maximum value and compliance.
How does the Shaken inspection affect car prices?
The inspection process is expensive in Japan — covering emissions, brakes, tires, lighting, and overall safety. Because most owners prefer upgrading rather than paying for another inspection, resale prices drop significantly after the three-year mark.
This depreciation is good news for Kenyan buyers. Eleven Motors capitalizes on these pricing cycles, giving you access to premium vehicles at a fraction of the cost compared to local dealerships.
Are cars exported under the 3-year rule more reliable?
Yes. Vehicles that have passed at least one Shaken inspection are proven to be roadworthy and well-serviced. Many come with complete maintenance logs and factory-standard parts, ensuring longevity even on Kenyan roads.
When you buy through Eleven Motors Japan Imports, you can request the full auction sheet and inspection report to verify the car’s reliability before purchase. This transparency ensures every buyer gets a trusted, long-lasting vehicle.
How old can you import a car in Kenya?
In Kenya, you can only import vehicles that are eight years old or newer from the year of manufacture. This rule is strictly enforced by KEBS and KRA to ensure all imported vehicles meet modern safety, mechanical, and environmental standards.
The age limit applies from January 1 of the manufacture year to January 1 of the import year. For example, cars manufactured in 2018 will no longer be eligible for import after December 31, 2025. Eleven Motors helps clients verify eligibility before purchase to prevent rejections or losses at Mombasa port.
What is the oldest car you can import to Kenya?
The oldest car you can import to Kenya is one that is no more than eight years old. Anything older is automatically restricted by KEBS and will not receive import clearance. Even a delay of a few weeks beyond the allowed window can make a car ineligible.
Our import team always checks the vehicle’s manufacture date from the auction sheet and Japanese Export Certificate to confirm it’s within the legal age limit. This verification protects you from investing in cars that can’t enter the country.
Can I import a 25-year-old car to Kenya?
No. Kenya does not allow the importation of vehicles older than eight years unless they qualify as classic or vintage cars for exhibition purposes — and those require special approval from KEBS and NTSA.
While 25-year-old imports are common in other markets like the U.S., they’re not permitted under Kenya’s road and emission regulations. Eleven Motors strictly avoids listing or shipping vehicles outside Kenya’s legal import age bracket.
Why does Kenya limit car import age?
This rule helps control pollution, enhance road safety, and promote newer technology vehicles that are more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. Older cars tend to have higher emissions and maintenance costs.
By maintaining the eight-year rule, Kenya ensures its vehicle fleet stays modern and sustainable. Eleven Motors supports this goal by offering verified, low-mileage cars that meet both Japanese and Kenyan environmental standards.
What is the oldest car you can import to Kenya?
The oldest car you can import to Kenya is one manufactured no more than eight years before the year of importation. Any vehicle older than that is considered non-compliant under the KEBS import regulations and will be denied entry at Mombasa port.
This rule is absolute and strictly enforced by both KEBS and KRA. For example, in 2025, the oldest cars eligible for import must be manufactured in 2018 or later. Even if a car was first registered in 2019 but manufactured in 2017, it will still be disqualified based on the manufacture year, not registration.
Eleven Motors always confirms this information before you pay for any car to avoid expensive shipping losses or clearance issues.
How to confirm your car’s manufacture year before importing
The easiest way to confirm your car’s actual manufacture year is by checking the Japanese Export Certificate or the chassis number (VIN). You can also verify the date on the auction sheet or via the Japanese Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA) database.
Eleven Motors’ verification team conducts a full age check before invoicing. This ensures your chosen car meets KEBS’ eight-year limit and will clear customs smoothly once it arrives in Kenya.
What happens if you import a car older than allowed?
If your car exceeds the age limit, it will be refused clearance at the port. KEBS will issue a non-compliance notice, and the importer will have to either ship the vehicle back or forfeit it to the authorities.
Such losses can be significant, which is why working with an expert importer like Eleven Motors is crucial. We double-check all manufacturing data and inspection certificates before shipment to guarantee compliance and avoid costly mistakes.
Are there exceptions to the eight-year import rule?
Exceptions are extremely rare. Only government-authorized vehicles such as fire engines, ambulances, or specially approved vintage vehicles are occasionally exempted. However, personal vehicles older than eight years are not allowed under any circumstance.
To stay on the safe side, Eleven Motors keeps all its listings within the eligible manufacturing range and provides full certification to ensure zero risk during clearance.
Can I import a 25-year-old car to Kenya?
No. You cannot import a 25-year-old car to Kenya under standard import laws. Kenya’s vehicle import regulations strictly limit eligible cars to those not older than eight years from the year of manufacture at the time of importation.
A 25-year-old vehicle falls far outside this limit and is automatically disqualified by KEBS. Even if it’s in excellent condition, it cannot be registered or cleared at Mombasa port unless it qualifies under the classic or vintage vehicle exemption, which is extremely limited and subject to approval.
Eleven Motors ensures clients only purchase vehicles that meet these national age and safety standards to prevent shipment losses or customs rejection.
When is importing a 25-year-old car allowed in Kenya?
Importing a 25-year-old vehicle is only allowed for classic, vintage, or collector cars under a special permit. These are typically unique vehicles intended for exhibition, display, or restoration purposes — not regular road use.
Such exemptions require authorization from KEBS and NTSA before shipment. The application process is lengthy and demands detailed documentation proving the car’s historical or collector value. Eleven Motors currently focuses on practical imports, so all listed vehicles fall within the eight-year compliance range.
Why are older vehicles restricted under Kenyan law?
The government restricts old vehicles to reduce carbon emissions, improve fuel efficiency, and promote safer roads. Older models generally emit higher levels of CO₂, lack modern safety features, and are more expensive to maintain.
This policy supports Kenya’s goal of reducing environmental impact while keeping the national vehicle fleet modern. Eleven Motors aligns with these values by offering recent-model imports that meet both KEBS and JEVIC environmental standards.
What happens if you attempt to import a 25-year-old car?
If you attempt to import a car older than eight years, the vehicle will not be cleared at Mombasa port. KEBS inspectors will flag it as non-compliant, and it will either be shipped back to Japan or confiscated by customs.
Such losses can cost importers hundreds of thousands of shillings. By purchasing through Eleven Motors Japan Imports, you eliminate this risk since every car we list is pre-verified for age, compliance, and inspection certification before shipment.
What year are cars eligible for import into Kenya?
Only cars manufactured within the last eight years are eligible for import into Kenya. This rolling age limit, enforced by KEBS and KRA, ensures all imported vehicles meet the country’s safety and emission standards.
The law means that in 2025, only vehicles manufactured in 2018 or later qualify. Every new year, one manufacturing year drops off the eligibility list. This strict rule prevents the influx of old, high-emission vehicles and keeps Kenya’s roads safer and cleaner. Eleven Motors verifies eligibility for each listing before purchase, ensuring every car clears customs without age-related issues.
How is the year of manufacture verified before import?
The year of manufacture is printed on the Japanese Export Certificate, and can be cross-checked against the auction sheet or the vehicle identification number (VIN). Customs officers use this year — not the registration date — when assessing eligibility.
This distinction is crucial because many buyers mistake the first registration year in Japan for the actual manufacture year. A car registered in 2019 but built in 2018, for example, becomes ineligible in 2026. Eleven Motors double-verifies this detail for every car to ensure that you only purchase vehicles legally allowed into Kenya.
What happens if you import a car that’s too old?
Any car older than the allowed year will be denied clearance at Mombasa port. KEBS inspectors automatically reject vehicles outside the eight-year range, and the importer must either ship them back or lose them to forfeiture.
This is one of the most common and costly mistakes made by private importers. Eleven Motors eliminates that risk by filtering every vehicle listing based on its manufacture date before shipment. That means no surprises when your car lands in Kenya.
Why does Kenya restrict car import eligibility by year?
The rolling eight-year limit helps maintain safety, fuel efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Older vehicles often emit more carbon dioxide, lack modern safety features, and consume more fuel.
By enforcing this policy, the government protects buyers from unreliable vehicles and promotes sustainable transportation. Eleven Motors supports this mission by exclusively sourcing newer, low-mileage cars that pass all KEBS and JEVIC inspections.
What is the KRA tax on imported cars in Kenya?
The KRA tax on imported cars is calculated based on the vehicle’s CIF value, which includes cost, insurance, and freight. Taxes include Import Duty (25%), Excise Duty (20–30%), VAT (16%), Import Declaration Fee (2.25%), and Railway Development Levy (1.5%).
These taxes are applied in sequence during customs clearance at Mombasa port. The total tax burden depends on factors such as engine size, fuel type, and age. Eleven Motors provides clients with accurate tax breakdowns before purchase to help plan total costs.
How are car import taxes calculated in Kenya?
The Import Duty is calculated first on the CIF value, followed by Excise Duty, and then VAT. The cumulative effect of these taxes can increase the vehicle’s total cost by 45–60% depending on category.
For example, a 1.5L Toyota Axio may attract lower taxes than a 2.4L SUV or luxury car. Eleven Motors uses KRA’s customs valuation system to provide real-time, transparent tax estimates so you know exactly what to expect.
Are hybrid and electric cars taxed differently?
Yes. Kenya offers tax incentives to encourage clean energy vehicle imports. Hybrid cars pay a lower excise duty, and fully electric vehicles (EVs) may qualify for VAT exemptions under Kenya’s green energy policy.
Eleven Motors helps clients identify hybrid and EV options that balance performance, price, and environmental responsibility — ensuring compliance while maximizing tax savings.
Why understanding KRA taxes helps you save
Knowing how taxes work prevents overpayment and delays. Many buyers underestimate the total customs fees, only to be surprised during clearance.
At Eleven Motors, we provide a total landed cost estimate before you commit to buying. This covers the CIF value, import duty, excise, VAT, IDF, and RDL — giving you full transparency from Japan to Kenya.
How to register an imported car in Kenya
Registering an imported car in Kenya involves paying NTSA fees, uploading documents to the TIMS portal, and obtaining number plates once customs clearance is complete. The process costs between KES 10,000 and 25,000, depending on the car’s category.
Eleven Motors guides clients through every registration step, from document preparation to logbook issuance, ensuring a stress-free experience.
What are the steps to register an imported car?
Start by logging into your NTSA TIMS account and selecting “Vehicle Registration.” Upload your Bill of Lading, JEVIC certificate, and Import Declaration Form (IDF). After verification, NTSA generates your registration number and payment instructions.
Once payment is complete, you can collect your number plates and logbook. Eleven Motors coordinates this process for all clients to avoid common errors that can delay registration.
Which taxes must be cleared before registration?
NTSA registration is only approved after all KRA taxes have been paid. The system automatically cross-checks your tax payment status using the Import Declaration Number (IDF).
Eleven Motors ensures that all your clearance documents, tax receipts, and inspection certificates are uploaded correctly, enabling a smooth registration experience.
How long does registration take after clearance?
Registration typically takes two to five working days once customs clearance is complete and all documents are verified.
Eleven Motors expedites the process by submitting documents immediately after clearance, so you can receive your number plates and logbook within days of your car’s arrival.
What are the disadvantages of buying a Japanese import car?
Japanese import cars offer outstanding value, but they also come with certain limitations that buyers should understand before making a purchase. The most common disadvantages include limited compatibility of in-car systems, possible spare parts challenges for rare models, and longer lead times due to the import process. Despite these factors, the benefits of quality and cost efficiency still make Japanese imports a popular choice among Kenyan buyers.
Eleven Motors provides full guidance to mitigate these challenges — from selecting cars with globally available parts to recommending local service solutions. By knowing what to expect, you can enjoy the full value of your imported car while avoiding costly surprises after delivery.
Do Japanese import cars have system or language limitations?
Yes. Many cars manufactured for the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) have onboard systems such as GPS, radio, or infotainment interfaces designed in Japanese. These systems might not display English menus or may lack frequency compatibility with Kenyan radio stations.
Fortunately, this issue is easily fixable. Most Kenyan auto shops can replace or reprogram infotainment units for between KES 10,000 and 25,000. Eleven Motors advises buyers on models with adaptable systems and can arrange for software updates or screen conversions before delivery, ensuring your car is ready to use immediately after registration.
Are spare parts for Japanese imports easy to find in Kenya?
For most models — like Toyota, Honda, Mazda, or Nissan — spare parts are widely available in Kenya due to the country’s long-standing relationship with Japan’s car market. However, rare or specialized variants may require extra time to source parts locally.
Eleven Motors helps clients choose models with strong aftermarket support and provides connections to verified local spare parts dealers in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Nakuru. This ensures consistent access to affordable maintenance and reduces long-term service costs.
Is shipping time a disadvantage when buying from Japan?
Shipping time is often cited as a drawback, as it typically takes six to eight weeks from purchase to delivery. During this period, the car undergoes inspection, loading, sea transit, and customs clearance.
However, Eleven Motors mitigates this by offering real-time shipment tracking, pre-inspection coordination, and expedited clearance services. We provide clients with regular updates from Japan to Mombasa, so you always know where your car is — making the wait both transparent and predictable.
How long can you drive a foreign car in Kenya?
A foreign-registered car can only be driven in Kenya for a maximum of 90 days from the date of entry, unless it is formally cleared and registered with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA). This rule prevents extended use of unregistered or untaxed vehicles within the country.
Driving beyond this limit without proper registration is considered illegal and can result in penalties, impoundment, or fines. Eleven Motors ensures all vehicles we import are registered before delivery, so clients avoid any compliance issues.
Can tourists or temporary residents drive imported cars in Kenya?
Yes. Tourists or foreign residents visiting Kenya can temporarily drive their imported vehicles under a Temporary Importation Permit (TIP). This permit allows up to 90 days of legal use and can be extended upon special request.
Once the period expires, the vehicle must either be re-exported or formally cleared for permanent use under KRA regulations. Eleven Motors provides guidance on documentation for clients importing vehicles under temporary use cases, ensuring full legal compliance.
What happens if you exceed the 90-day limit?
If the car remains unregistered after 90 days, KRA will classify it as a non-compliant import. Customs officials may seize the vehicle, impose storage fees, or require payment of full import taxes plus penalties.
To avoid this, Eleven Motors completes all clearance and registration within two weeks of the car’s arrival. We also advise clients on insurance, road licensing, and transfer timelines to ensure uninterrupted ownership.
Can I drive my Japanese import before registration is complete?
No. You can only drive the vehicle after NTSA has issued number plates and insurance coverage has been obtained. Unregistered driving is a traffic offense.
Eleven Motors simplifies this by arranging insurance, road license, and registration simultaneously — meaning your vehicle is fully legal to drive the moment you pick it up.
What qualifies as a foreign car in Kenya?
A foreign car in Kenya refers to any vehicle imported from outside the country, including those shipped from Japan, the UK, or South Africa. Such cars must be cleared by KRA, pass KEBS inspection, and be registered through NTSA before use.
Foreign cars remain subject to the same age, inspection, and tax regulations as Japanese imports. Eleven Motors handles all procedures required to convert your imported vehicle into a fully registered Kenyan car.
Are Japanese import cars considered foreign vehicles in Kenya?
Yes. All vehicles brought from Japan are classified as foreign until they complete clearance and registration. Once registered, they become locally recognized vehicles with Kenyan number plates and ownership status.
Eleven Motors specializes in turning these foreign imports into fully road-legal, registered cars ready for everyday use across the country.
How does the registration process make a car local?
Registration through NTSA and KRA converts a foreign vehicle into a Kenyan one. This process involves tax payment, issuance of a registration number, and creation of an official logbook.
Once completed, the vehicle’s information is stored in NTSA’s national database, making it traceable and transferable under Kenyan law. Eleven Motors ensures this conversion process is completed within days of clearance.
Why is it important to register a foreign car in Kenya?
Unregistered foreign vehicles cannot legally operate on public roads, cannot be insured, and are ineligible for sale. Registration provides proof of ownership and legal protection in case of accidents or theft.
At Eleven Motors, we guide every buyer through the entire ownership process — from Japan to full Kenyan registration — ensuring total compliance and peace of mind.
Is it cheaper to import a car from Japan to Kenya in 2025?
Yes, importing a car from Japan to Kenya in 2025 remains cheaper than buying locally, mainly due to favorable exchange rates, direct auction sourcing, and reduced middleman markups. Buyers typically save 15–30% compared to local dealership prices.
The continued strength of the Kenyan shilling against the Japanese yen has made Japanese vehicles more affordable. When you import directly through Eleven Motors, you gain access to verified auction listings, transparent pricing, and detailed cost breakdowns — ensuring every coin is accounted for from purchase to registration.
Why are Japanese imports cheaper than locally sold vehicles?
Local dealers add markups to cover storage, taxes, and profit margins, often raising prices by hundreds of thousands of shillings. Direct importers, on the other hand, pay only for the auction price, shipping, and taxes, which makes the final cost lower.
Japan’s vehicle depreciation rate is also favorable to Kenyan buyers. Cars lose value faster in Japan due to strict inspection laws (Shaken), but they remain in excellent mechanical condition. Eleven Motors capitalizes on this gap to provide quality, low-mileage cars at competitive landed prices.
How does the yen-to-shilling exchange rate affect prices?
A strong Kenyan shilling means more purchasing power when buying in yen. In 2025, the currency exchange rate continues to favor importers, lowering the cost of CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) values.
Eleven Motors continually monitors exchange rate trends and updates car listings to reflect real-time currency fluctuations. This ensures clients buy at the most advantageous times, maximizing their savings while keeping compliance with KEBS and KRA standards.
Does importing directly save more than buying from showrooms?
Absolutely. When you import directly, you avoid showroom markups, outdated stock, and dealer commission fees. You also get full visibility into the car’s history, inspection, and shipping progress.
Eleven Motors offers clients complete transparency — from Japan auction access to Mombasa delivery. Our expert team calculates total landed costs before you make payment, ensuring the price you see is the price you pay — with no hidden extras.
What are the benefits of importing a car from Japan through Eleven Motors?
Importing through Eleven Motors offers peace of mind, cost efficiency, and full transparency. Unlike random online listings, our process ensures every car meets Kenya’s import laws, age limits, and inspection standards before purchase.
Our clients enjoy a seamless end-to-end experience: verified listings, safe payments, pre-shipment inspection, customs handling, and NTSA registration — all managed under one trusted platform.
Do I get verified inspection and documentation support?
Yes. Every car sourced through Eleven Motors includes JEVIC inspection, auction sheet verification, and KEBS compliance. This guarantees your car’s authenticity and mechanical quality before it leaves Japan.
We also provide digital copies of all export documents — including the Bill of Lading and Export Certificate — allowing you to track progress and verify every step of the process.
How does Eleven Motors ensure tax and clearance compliance?
We use official KRA systems to estimate import taxes and duties before purchase, ensuring your total cost aligns with Kenyan customs laws. Once your car arrives, our clearance agents process it quickly to prevent demurrage or storage delays.
Clients receive a detailed invoice covering CIF, Import Duty, Excise, VAT, IDF, and RDL — giving full cost transparency from start to finish.
Can Eleven Motors deliver my imported car anywhere in Kenya?
Yes. After clearance and registration, we can arrange safe transportation from Mombasa to Nairobi, Kisumu, Eldoret, or Nakuru, depending on your location.
Our delivery service ensures your vehicle arrives clean, fully registered, and ready for the road. Each car goes through final inspection and detailing before handover, reflecting Eleven Motors’ commitment to quality and professionalism.
Frequently Asked Questions About Importing Cars from Japan to Kenya
How to import a car from Japan to Kenya
To import a car from Japan to Kenya, choose a verified exporter, ensure it passes JEVIC inspection, pay all required KRA duties, and complete NTSA registration once the car arrives at Mombasa. Eleven Motors handles this process from sourcing to delivery, ensuring full compliance and smooth clearance.
Total cost of importing a car from Japan to Kenya
The total cost to import a car from Japan to Kenya ranges from KES 1.2 million to KES 3.5 million, depending on the model, engine size, and year of manufacture. This includes purchase price, shipping, import duty, excise, VAT, and registration fees. Eleven Motors provides an all-inclusive cost breakdown before purchase so you know exactly what you’ll pay.
Is it cheaper to import a car from Japan to Kenya?
Yes, importing directly is cheaper because you avoid middleman markups and inflated showroom prices. Buyers typically save 15–30% compared to local purchases. Eleven Motors offers direct auction access, verified listings, and complete cost transparency from Japan to Kenya.
How to import a car from Japan in 2022 (and beyond)
The same import principles from 2022 still apply today: verify the exporter, confirm age compliance (eight years or newer), pass JEVIC inspection, pay customs taxes, and register with NTSA. Eleven Motors has continually optimized this process, adapting to every new KRA and KEBS regulation up to 2025 for faster, safer imports.
KRA car import duty
KRA imposes Import Duty (25%), Excise Duty (20–30%), VAT (16%), Import Declaration Fee (2.25%), and Railway Development Levy (1.5%). These taxes are based on the vehicle’s CIF (Cost, Insurance, and Freight) value. Eleven Motors provides precise tax estimates before shipment, ensuring complete compliance and transparency.
KRA car import duty calculator 2025
The KRA car import duty calculator 2025 uses the current customs valuation database to compute taxes based on CIF, vehicle category, and engine capacity. Eleven Motors uses the same system internally to give clients accurate, updated tax estimates that match KRA’s official figures for 2025.
KRA import duty calculator
This online tool estimates import taxes payable on vehicles shipped to Kenya. It requires input of vehicle details, including engine size, age, and CIF value. Eleven Motors can handle this process for you, calculating total import costs using KRA’s approved formula and documentation.
Can I import a motorcycle from Japan to Kenya?
Yes. Motorcycles can also be imported from Japan, provided they meet KEBS and NTSA regulations. Taxes apply at lower rates than cars, but pre-shipment inspection is still mandatory. Eleven Motors assists clients with motorcycle sourcing, inspection, and clearance — ensuring road-legal certification upon arrival.
How long does shipping take from Japan to Kenya?
Shipping typically takes 27–35 days from Japan to Mombasa, followed by about a week for customs and registration. Eleven Motors provides tracking updates for every shipment, ensuring clients know their car’s exact status from start to finish.
Can I pay for my imported car in installments?
Most exporters require full payment before shipping, but Eleven Motors offers structured deposit options under verified escrow arrangements to enhance buyer safety.
Is importing a hybrid or electric car from Japan to Kenya possible?
Yes. Hybrid and electric imports qualify for lower KRA taxes and meet Kenya’s new eco-mobility targets. Eleven Motors provides up-to-date cost estimates for these vehicle types and helps clients choose the most efficient model for their budget.
How do I verify that my car is not stolen or accident-damaged?
All Eleven Motors listings come with verified auction sheets and JEVIC inspection certificates, confirming condition, mileage, and accident history. This eliminates the risk of fraudulent or tampered vehicles.
Can Eleven Motors help me calculate total import costs?
Yes. We provide a full landed cost estimate covering CIF, import duty, excise, VAT, IDF, RDL, and registration before you make any payment — giving you 100% clarity on your investment.
Final Thoughts
Importing a car from Japan to Kenya continues to be one of the smartest financial decisions for Kenyan car buyers in 2025. By working with Eleven Motors, you gain full control over cost, transparency, and legal compliance while accessing thousands of top-quality Japanese vehicles.
Whether you want a family car, luxury SUV, hybrid, or even a motorcycle, Eleven Motors provides trusted end-to-end import services — from sourcing and inspection to shipping, clearance, and registration.
Ready to begin your import journey?
🚗 Explore verified listings on our Japan Car Listings
📄 Learn about the process on Import From Japan
📞 Contact Eleven Motors today for a free cost calculation and personalized import guidance.
With Eleven Motors, importing your next car from Japan to Kenya is transparent, affordable, and 100% compliant — every time.