Getting a used car from Japan to Botswana does involve certain requirements and things you need to know. That’s why it’s important to perform your due-diligence when it comes to importing a vehicle. Thankfully, the used car import process to Botswana is not very difficult. However, it does come with certain requirements, which you have to consider.

What vehicles are eligible?

Unlike other countries, Botswana does not have limitations when it comes to the age of the vehicle. It doesn’t matter how old the used car from Japan is, you will be able to import it to the country without any problems.

Are there any taxes and duties you need to pay?

Absolutely, there are certain duties/taxes to pay when a car gets imported to Botswana. However, there are a few things to consider, depending on the characteristics of the used vehicle.

·      A free entry is allowed only if it’s done within 6 months of the work permit issue date. After that, Botswana applies a 10% VAT. Also, a single car per family will be duty-free, the others will be subject to around 15-20% VAT for the CIF value.

·      The car is not to be sold for 2 years after you import it. VAT is applied to the imported car value.

·      21% VAT is imposed for customs duty.

What documents are needed to import a Japanese vehicle in Botswana?

Documentation is extremely important when you get a Japanese vehicle in Botswana. Here, you have to send the right documents to BURS.

·      You need a purchase invoice showing the vehicle value.

·      A police clearance certificate needs to be provided from the Botswana police service and Japanese police as well.

·      A vehicle evaluation needs to be acquired from the used car dealer you chose

·      Customs declaration form SAD 500 is required, along with the form CE 101 in duplicate. The latter needs to be issued with the residence, import permit and passport, all of which have to be sent to the Department of Customs and Excise.

·      Proof of ownership and registration are required

·      IC2 application, you can get it from the Destination Agent.

Customs procedure

You will need a certificate of title and registration, because that shows the car has been owned and used for a year. That’s mandatory when you are importing a Japanese used car into Botswana, so keep that in mind.

Other things to consider

·      Foreign diplomats don’t have to pay any taxes or duties, but that’s subject to the provision of diplomatic clearance certificates and proof of value.

·      If you are a resident of Botswana, you are not allowed to use a foreign vehicle registered in Botswana more than 14 days after importing it.

It’s clear that you always need to know the import requirements when importing a Japanese used vehicle to Botswana. Thankfully, Botswana’s legal requirements for importing vehicles are not as strict as other countries. That makes it easier to buy your dream Japanese used car and register in the country, and then drive it without a problem. However Botswana does require specialized paperwork, like the forms SAD 500 or CE 101, along with an IC 2 application.