Individuals driving vehicles in Kenya require specific requirements to ensure legal operation.These regulations apply to both foreign nationals and kenya citizens who own or operate foreign -registered vehicles.
With the cost of buying a vehicle in Kenya ,and the price of maintaining the vehicles because of the taxes ,it may be cheaper to acquire the vehicles from the other East African Countries (EAC)or the Common Market of East and Southern Africa ( COMESA).
The National Transport and Safety Authority ( NTSA) manages road operations while the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) handles revenue from these vehicles. Both agencies require a few things for you to own and operate these vehicles.
Requirements
1. Proof of residency and work permit – drivers must provide proof of residency and work permits from the vehicle’s country of origin.
2. EAC and COMESA requirements – They must also provide ownership documentation and power of the attorney if they are acting as an agent for the owner.
3. Diplomatic status – Diplomats operating foreign-registered vehicles must prove their diplomatic status and employment in a diplomatic capacity.
4. Form C32 -Before entering Kenya, foreign operators from EAC and COMESA countries must present a valid Temporary Importation of Road Vehicle Form (Form C32) issued at the border.
5. Foreign Motor Vehicle Permit: After obtaining the required documentation, the vehicle owner must apply for a foreign motor vehicle permit through the eCitizen platform. Permit fees are based on the vehicle’s engine capacity.
Requirements for a Form C32
Form C 32 is the “Temporary Importation of Road Vehicles Form” that is required for foreigners and Kenyan citizens to legally operate a vehicle with foreign licence plates in Kenya.
If Kenyan, one must have the foreign Motor Vehicle Registration Book in his/her name.
Other requirements include power of attorney and proof of ongoing diplomatic status for diplomats and proof of working in a diplomatic capacity i.e Valid Diplomatic ID.
After obtaining the form there are several procedures to obtain a fully operational foreign vehicle permit.
Steps to Obtain Foreign Vehicle Permit
● Free Temporary Permit: Receive a free seven-day temporary permit at entry points for vehicles crossing the border.
● Free Foreign Permit: Receive a free seven-day foreign permit for vehicles in transit to neighbouring countries.
● Paid Foreign Permit: Apply for a paid foreign permit for vehicles touring Kenya with an international circulation permit or entering Kenya on a business trip under the East African Treaty, COMESA Treaty, or bilateral agreements.
● Fees: Pay fees based on the vehicle’s engine capacity:
– Below 2000cc for 1 month: Sh 2,570 ($20.00)
– Below 2000cc for 3 months: Sh 6,425 ($50.00)
– Above 2000cc for 1 month: Sh 5,140 ($40.00)
– Above 2000cc for 3 months: Sh 12,850 ($100.00)
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in the vehicle being impounded.
– By Barbara Owano Lubukha
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