Zimra tightens Temporary Import Permit rules for foreign vehicles

Foreign motorists entering Zimbabwe face stricter oversight and tighter validity limits under a new regulatory regime introduced by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority to curb facility abuse. The enforcement actions apply directly to all temporary motor vehicle imports.

Zimbabwe Revenue Authority Enhances Controls for Temporary Import Permits

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority issued Public Notice Number 60 of 2026 on Wednesday, 21 October 2026, outlining enhanced controls for Temporary Import Permits governing foreign-registered motor vehicles. The measures are implemented under the Customs and Excise Act [Chapter 23:02] and the Customs and Excise (General) Regulations, 2001, according to heraldonline.co.zw reporting by Thupeyo Muleya. Under the updated framework, a permit may be issued to a bona fide visitor ordinarily resident outside Zimbabwe who enters the country temporarily for tourism, business, study, employment, sporting activities, or other lawful temporary purposes.

Applicants must produce a valid passport, an original vehicle registration book, and a letter of authority or an affidavit if the driver is not the registered owner. Drivers who are Zimbabwean residents living abroad must also present a work, employment, study, or residence permit. The authority stated that certain applications, particularly non-owner-driven vehicles, may be subjected to additional verification checks.

Temporary Import Permits Last 30 Days Maximum

Temporary Import Permits are ordinarily issued for a maximum duration of 30 days. Requests for longer stays receive consideration on a case-by-case basis but cannot exceed a total period of three months. All requests for extensions must be submitted before the initial expiry date and must include valid reasons alongside relevant documentation.

Vehicles must remain under the direct control of the permit holder throughout the stay. Disposal of the vehicle within Zimbabwe requires formal approval from the revenue authority, and vehicles must be re-exported before the permit expires unless an extension is officially granted. Permit holders are also restricted from exiting the country without the vehicle unless prior arrangements are made with the nearest office.

Border Fees and Financial Obligations

Travellers continue to pay baseline fees consisting of a US$10 carbon tax and US$30 for third-party insurance, as reported by heraldonline.co.zw. Motorists entering through the Beitbridge Border Post face additional charges, including a US$9 bridge toll fee and a US$28 Zimborders fee.

For further inquiries regarding private vehicle imports, travellers can contact local offices or reach out via email to BeitbridgePrivateImports@zimra.co.zw, PlumtreePrivateImports@zimra.co.zw, or HararePortMotorTraffic@zimra.co.zw.