You have finally seen your imported car land at the port, but now the real headache begins. Finding insurance for a car that is not yet registered can feel like chasing your own tail here in Kenya.
This guide breaks down the process into simple, straight steps so you can get your cover sorted in under an hour. No more confusion, just a clear path from the port to the road.
What You Need Before You Start
Before you approach any insurer, you must have a few key documents ready. Trying to get insurance without them will just waste your time and leave you frustrated. Pole, but that is just how the system works here.
- Proforma Invoice or Bill of Lading: This proves the value of your imported car. Insurers use this figure to calculate your premium, so keep a clear copy handy.
- KRA Import Declaration Form (IDF): You need this form from the Kenya Revenue Authority. Without it, no insurance company can process a cover for a car that hasn’t been cleared yet.
- Customs Entry Number (C52): This is the document showing your car has been entered for customs clearance at the port. You get it from your clearing agent.
- Valid Identification: Your Kenyan ID or passport is mandatory. If you are a company, you will need the KRA PIN certificate and certificate of incorporation.
- Estimated Fees: Most insurers will ask for a deposit of around KES 5,000 to KES 10,000 to start the process. The full premium depends on your car’s value and the cover type you choose.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Insurance for an Imported Car in Kenya
Follow these six simple steps to get your imported car insured in Kenya. The whole process takes less than an hour if you have your documents ready.
-
Step 1: Get a Proforma Invoice from Your Insurer
Visit any reputable insurance company or broker in Kenya like CIC, Jubilee, or GA Insurance. Provide them with your car’s proforma invoice and KRA Import Declaration Form (IDF). They will issue a proforma invoice showing your premium amount in KES.
-
Step 2: Pay the Deposit Premium
Pay the deposit premium as quoted in the proforma invoice. Most insurers require a minimum deposit of KES 5,000 to KES 10,000 to activate the cover. You can pay via M-Pesa, bank transfer, or cash at their office.
-
Step 3: Provide the Customs Entry Number (C52)
Share your Customs Entry Number (C52) with the insurer. This document from your clearing agent confirms your car has been entered for customs clearance at the port. Without this, the insurance company cannot process your cover.
-
Step 4: Receive Your Cover Note
The insurer will issue a cover note valid for 30 to 90 days. This temporary document allows you to clear your car from customs and get temporary number plates. Keep it in your car at all times.
-
Step 5: Complete Customs Clearance at KRA
Use the cover note to clear your car at KRA customs. You will need to pay import duty, VAT, and other taxes. Your clearing agent handles most of this process at the port or container freight station.
-
Step 6: Register Your Car and Get Permanent Insurance
After customs clearance, register your car at NTSA through the TIMS portal. Once registered, return to your insurer to convert the cover note into a full insurance policy valid for one year.
Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Insurer Refuses to Cover an Unregistered Car
Some insurance companies say they cannot issue a cover note for a car without number plates. The fix is simple: insist on a Complete cover note specifically for imported cars under customs bond. Most major insurers like CIC and Jubilee offer this service. If they still refuse, move to another insurer.
Cover Note Expires Before Car is Cleared
This happens often when customs clearance takes longer than expected. Contact your insurer at least one week before expiry and request a free extension. Most companies will extend your cover note for another 30 days at no extra cost. Do not drive with an expired cover note.
Disagreement on Car Value for Premium Calculation
Insurers sometimes use a lower value than what you paid for the car. Bring your proforma invoice or bill of lading as proof of the purchase price. If they still insist on a lower value, ask for a written explanation. You can escalate to the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) hotline on 0800721361 for assistance.
Clearing Agent Delays Submitting Documents
Your clearing agent may take too long to provide the C52 form. Call them daily and follow up. If they keep delaying, visit their office in person at the port or container freight station. Having the document ready saves you from unnecessary stress.
Cost and Timeline for How to Get Insurance for an Imported Car in Kenya
Getting insurance for your imported car involves several fees beyond just the premium. Here is a breakdown of what you should expect to pay and how long each stage takes.
| Item | Cost (KES) | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Deposit Premium (Complete cover) | 5,000 – 10,000 | Same day |
| Full Complete Premium (car value up to KES 2M) | 35,000 – 60,000 | Paid after registration |
| Cover Note Issuance | Free (included in premium) | 1 – 2 hours |
| Cover Note Extension (if needed) | Free | 1 day |
| KRA Import Duty & Taxes | 25% – 35% of car value | 3 – 7 days |
Most hidden costs come from delays at the port or container freight station. If your clearing agent takes long, you may need a cover note extension. These fees are standard across all counties in Kenya, though premiums may vary slightly by insurer. Always ask for a written quote before paying anything.
The Bottom Line
Getting insurance for your imported car in Kenya is straightforward if you have the right documents from the start. The secret is to prepare your proforma invoice, IDF, and C52 form before approaching any insurer. This saves you from unnecessary back-and-forth and keeps the process moving smoothly.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with a friend who is also importing a car. Have questions about your specific situation? Drop a comment below and we will help you out.
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Get Insurance for an Imported Car in Kenya
Can I insure my imported car before it arrives in Kenya?
Yes, you can get a pre-arrival cover note using your proforma invoice and bill of lading. Most insurers offer this once the car is shipped and you have the shipping documents ready.
This cover protects your car during transit from the port to your location. It is valid for 30 to 90 days depending on the insurer.
Do I need a KRA PIN to insure an imported car?
Yes, a KRA PIN is mandatory for both individuals and companies. Without it, no insurance company can process your cover note or issue a policy.
You can get your KRA PIN online through the iTax portal in under 30 minutes. It is free to apply and you receive it instantly.
How long does the insurance process take from start to finish?
The cover note itself takes 1 to 2 hours to issue once you have all documents ready. The full policy takes longer because you must first clear customs and register the car at NTSA.
From start to finish, expect the entire process to take 2 to 4 weeks. Delays at KRA customs often cause the longest waiting periods.
What happens if my car gets damaged while on a cover note?
Your cover note provides full Complete protection just like a regular policy. You can file a claim with your insurer if your car is damaged, stolen, or involved in an accident.
However, you must report the incident to the police within 24 hours and get a police abstract. Without it, your claim will be rejected.
Can I switch insurance companies after getting the cover note?
Yes, you can switch insurers after your car is registered and you have a permanent policy. Simply cancel your existing cover note and request a refund of the unused premium.
Most insurers charge a small administration fee for cancellations, usually around KES 500 to KES 1,000. Always read the terms before switching to avoid surprises.