Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is mandated to collect revenue on behalf of the Government of Kenya. Among the tax laws and regulations it administers, KRA also administers the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA, 2004).
Pursuant to Part B of the Second Schedule to the East African Community Customs Management Act (EACCMA, 2004), on restricted imports, mobile devices require regulatory permits from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).
Following the Communication Authority of Kenya’s (CA) public notice on enhancing the integrity and tax compliance of mobile devices, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) hereby notifies all importers of Mobile devices and travelers of the following Customs requirements to implement the CA’s requirements:

1. Requirements for Importers: All Importers of Mobile Devices will be required to submit detailed import entries for all mobile devices with accurate quantities, proper model descriptions/specifications, and their respective IMEI numbers in the Customs system.
2. Requirements for Passengers: Passengers entering the territory of Kenya will declare the details and the respective IMEI numbers for their mobile devices intended for use, during the stay in the country at the Port of entry on the F88 passenger declaration form.
3. Device Assemblers/Manufacturers: Must register on the Customs portal and submit a report of all devices assembled for the local market and their respective IMEI numbers.

One must also obtain necessary regulatory clearances and permits from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA).

The Public is therefore notified of this requirement, which will be implemented effective 1st January, 2025. Specific guidelines on the system process and how to capture the devices and IMEI numbers for different users will be shared in due course.

For more information kindly email: callcentre@kra.go.ke, the Contact Centre on 020 4999 999 or 0711 099 999, or visit any KRA office near you.

Commissioner Customs and Border Control