Importing a Used Car from Japan to Namibia: A Quick Guide
Importing a used car from Japan to Namibia is a straightforward process, but there are important requirements you must follow. Here is a quick rundown of what you need to know.
Vehicle Eligibility
- Age Limit: The vehicle must be 12 years old or newer from the date of manufacture.
- Right-Hand Drive Only: Left-hand drive vehicles are banned, with the only exception being diplomats.
- Sales Restriction: Once imported, you cannot sell the vehicle for 24 months.
- Ownership Requirement: You must have owned the vehicle for at least 12 months before shipping.
- Residence Permit: Vehicles cannot be imported on a work permit; you must have a residence permit.
Taxes and Duties
You must pay the following duties and taxes when importing a vehicle to Namibia:
- Customs Duty: 27% of the vehicle value
- VAT: 15% on the CIF value plus customs duty
Example Calculation: VW Golf Polo 6
If you import a VW Golf Polo 6 with a CIF value of $5,000 USD:
- Customs Duty: 27% × $5,000 = $1,350 USD
- VAT: 15% × ($5,000 + $1,350) = 15% × $6,350 = $952.50 USD
Total Import Taxes: $2,302.50 USD
Duty-Free Exemption: Returning residents may import one vehicle duty-free if it has been owned and used for at least 12 months prior to shipment.
Required Documents
When importing a vehicle from Japan, you will need the following documents:
- Copy of Passport
- Commercial Invoice
- Export Certificate
- Import Permit
- Customs Declaration Form (CA304A)
- Bill of Lading
Customs Procedure
- Transport Method: Since March 1, 2023, all imported vehicles must be transported on a car carrier trailer. Self-driven imports are no longer allowed.
- Clearance: You need CA304A form approval and customs clearance before you can obtain license plates and registration.
Important Considerations
- Import Permit: You must obtain an import permit before shipping. Vehicles without a valid permit will not be accepted.
- Document Consistency: All vehicle details (engine number, chassis number, year of manufacture) must match across all documents and the physical vehicle.
- Transit Vehicles: If a vehicle is transiting Namibia to another country, it must also be transported via a carrier trailer.
Final Thoughts
It is important to understand all the requirements before importing a used car from Japan to Namibia. Following these procedures will make the process much easier and help you avoid delays at the border.
At iGETAUTO, we can help you find the right used car from Japan and guide you through the whole process.
