Import/Export Permit Requirements in Kenya
Import/Export Permit Requirements in Kenya, Licencing Body & Contacts
Summary of Requirements
- Valid Commercial/Pro forma Invoice
- Certificate of Conformity (CoC) for regulated products
- Bill of Lading/Airway Bill
- Certificate of Origin
- Import/Export license (for restricted goods)
- KRA Customs Declaration
- Clearance from relevant authorities (KEPHIS, Veterinary, etc.)
- Licensed Customs Clearing Agent
Key Contacts
- Kenya Revenue Authority: Times Tower, Haile Selassie Avenue, P.O. Box 48240-00100
- KRA Customer Care: 020 4999999 / 0711 099999
- Kenya Trade Network Agency: Email: [email protected]
- Ministry of Health: Afya House, P.O. Box 30016-00100
- KEPHIS: P.O. Box 49592-00100, Nairobi
What are Import/Export Permits?
Import and export permits are authorizations issued by various government agencies allowing businesses to bring goods into Kenya or send goods out of the country. These permits ensure compliance with international trade regulations, quality standards, and safety requirements. Different types of goods require permits from specific regulatory bodies depending on their nature and potential impact on public health or the economy.
The Kenya Revenue Authority manages customs processes for all imports and exports through the integrated Customs Management System. Specialized permits are required for food items, agricultural products, pharmaceutical goods, chemicals, and other regulated commodities. Importers and exporters must engage licensed customs clearing agents who understand the complex documentation and regulatory requirements.
To import goods into Kenya, businesses need a Certificate of Conformity from Pre-Verification of Conformity agents for regulated products. An Import Standard Mark is required when applicable for goods sold in the local market. Agricultural products require plant import permits from KEPHIS. Food, drugs, and chemical substances need permits from the Port Health Office or Pharmacy and Poisons Board.
The customs clearing agent declares goods in the customs system and provides importers with payment slips for duties and taxes. Importers make payments to banks and issue official bank slips to agents. Customs processes compliant declarations, and KEBS authenticates quality certificates before releasing goods. Port charges must be cleared before goods are released to the importer.
For exports, businesses require permits from relevant authorities depending on product type. Tea exports need permits from the Tea Board, coffee from the Coffee Board, and agricultural products from KEPHIS. The customs clearing agent creates export entries and presents original documents to customs discharge stations. Upon stuffing and verification, compliant declarations are cleared and goods released for export.
A mandatory Certificate of Origin must accompany all consignments imported into Kenya from countries outside the East African Community. This requirement became strictly enforced from October 2025. Businesses must ensure all documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays, penalties, or rejection of shipments at entry points.
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