In today’s globalized world, cross-border travel is a common aspiration for many motorists. Whether you’re planning an adventurous road trip across Africa, Europe, or Asia, or you’re simply moving temporarily for work, driving your own vehicle can make the experience more convenient and enjoyable. But how do you navigate the sometimes complex world of customs when traveling with your car across country borders? The solution is simple: a Carnet de Passage.
In this article, we have covered how to get a Carnet de Passage in Kenya and its associated costs.
What is a Carnet de Passage?
A Carnet de Passage en Douane (CPD) is an international customs document that allows for the temporary admission of motor vehicles into foreign countries without the need for import duties or taxes. In simpler terms, it’s like a passport for your car. It eliminates the need to deposit cash or leave your original logbook with customs officials, allowing for smoother entry into foreign countries.
The Carnet consists of 25 pages, and it’s valid for one year, enabling travel across up to 25 different countries within that period. There’s also a shorter version with 10 pages, valid for three months, ideal for shorter trips.
Why You Need a Carnet de Passage
When traveling to a country that requires a Carnet, customs officers will ask for the document before allowing you to enter with your vehicle. Without it, you may be required to provide a cash deposit equivalent to the customs duties and taxes of the country, which can be a significant financial burden. The Carnet simplifies this process and assures the customs authorities that your vehicle will not be sold while in their country and will be re-exported.
The Automobile Association of Kenya (AA Kenya) is the sole authorized issuer of the Carnet de Passage in Kenya. AA Kenya helps streamline the process, offering easy access to the document for both its members and non-members.
Requirements for Getting a Carnet de Passage in Kenya
To obtain a Carnet de Passage in Kenya, there are several documents and steps you need to follow. These include:
- Vehicle Valuation Report
Your vehicle needs to be valued by the AA Kenya technical department. This valuation report will determine the financial guarantee required. - Touring Guarantee
You need to provide a financial guarantee, which can be in the form of a bank guarantee, insurance, or cash deposit. The amount is determined by the value of your vehicle and the countries you intend to visit. The money is refundable once you return to Kenya with your vehicle. - Copy of the Vehicle Logbook
You will need to submit a copy of your vehicle’s logbook, which verifies your ownership of the vehicle. - Copy of Your Passport
A copy of your passport is required for identification purposes. - Duly Filled Application Form
Complete the Carnet de Passage application form, which can be obtained from AA Kenya.
Carnet de Passage Costs in Kenya
The cost of obtaining a Carnet de Passage in Kenya depends on whether you are an AA Kenya member or a non-member, as well as the validity period you require.
| Validity | AA Members | Non-Members |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months validity | Ksh 17,000 | Ksh 22,000 |
| 1-year validity | Ksh 35,000 | Ksh 40,000 |
For AA members, there’s a clear cost advantage, making it worthwhile to consider joining AA Kenya if you anticipate frequent international travel with your vehicle.
Benefits of the Carnet de Passage
- No Need for Cash Deposits: With a Carnet, you avoid the need to leave hefty cash deposits at border crossings, which could amount to thousands of dollars, depending on the country’s customs regulations.
- Streamlined Entry: The process at customs becomes much quicker and more efficient with a Carnet in hand, as you won’t have to surrender your logbook or vehicle ownership documents temporarily.
- Multiple Country Access: A single Carnet can be used in several countries over a specified period, providing flexibility for extended road trips across borders.
How to Apply
To apply for a Carnet de Passage, you can contact AA Kenya through the following channels:
- Phone: 0709 933 000 or 0709 933 120
- Email: licensing@aakenya.co.ke
It is advisable to start the application process early to avoid delays, especially if you plan on traveling to multiple countries. The Carnet de Passage will be issued once the valuation report is completed and the financial guarantee is secured.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a Carnet de Passage in Kenya is a straightforward process when working with AA Kenya, and the benefits it provides for international travelers are immense. It simplifies your vehicle’s entry into foreign countries, removes the hassle of cash deposits at border crossings, and ensures that your vehicle documentation is handled smoothly.
Whether you’re traveling for work or adventure, having this document in hand will make your cross-border trips much easier and more enjoyable.
