Below are requirements for people living in the Diaspora and looking forward to return and permanently settle in Kenya.
A returning resident is a Kenyan citizen who has been residing outside Kenya and is now returning permanently. Under the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA), returning residents are entitled to import certain goods duty-free, including personal and household effects and motor vehicles, subject to specific conditions.
General Conditions for Duty-Free Import
- The person must have resided outside Kenya for a continuous period of at least one year immediately preceding their return
- The goods must have been owned and used by the returning resident for at least one year prior to return
- The goods must be imported within a reasonable time before or after the return (usually within 3 months before or 6 months after)
- The goods must be for the personal or household use of the returning resident and not for commercial purposes or resale
- The returning resident must prove change of residence by providing relevant documentation
Motor Vehicle Import
Returning residents may import one motor vehicle duty-free, subject to the following conditions:
- The vehicle must have been personally owned and used by the returning resident for at least one year prior to return
- The vehicle must be a right-hand drive (RHD) or comply with LHD provisions if returning from an LHD country
- The current retail selling price must be within the limits prescribed by KRA
- The vehicle must comply with KEBS standards
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Required Documents
- Valid Kenyan passport
- Proof of residence abroad (work permit, residence visa, utility bills, etc.)
- Proof of ownership and usage of the goods/vehicle abroad
- Bill of lading / air waybill
- Inventory of personal and household effects
- KRA PIN certificate
- Employer's letter or evidence of employment abroad (if applicable)
- For vehicles: logbook, purchase receipt, and proof of disposal of previous LHD vehicle (if applicable)
What Can Be Imported Duty-Free
- Personal and household effects (clothing, furniture, kitchenware, electronics for personal use)
- One motor vehicle (subject to conditions)
- Professional tools and equipment (subject to limits)
- Books and educational materials