Import rules and regulations on Japanese used vehicles in Angola


Japan is one of the major importers of used vehicles. Every year large numbers of vehicles are exported from Japan. The benefits that come with Japanese used cars are not only money saving but the best choice that one could get while buying a used car. The quality of cars Japan automakers produce is excellent and unbeatable. They are designed with enough unique features to give a pleasurable experience within one's budget. These cars have magnificent built, finish and reliability. Plus importing a used vehicle is also not a difficult task as buyer just has to be more cautious to judge the legitimacy of exporters to avoid landing into any problem.


There are restrictions on importation of used vehicles in the country. Light motor vehicles imported in the country should not be more than 3 years, whereas heavy vehicles should not be more than 5 years from the date of production. Importation of only left-hand drive vehicles is allowed in the country. While importing a used vehicle, Pre Shipment Inspection (PSI) in the country of origin is required to make sure that the vehicle imported match with the standards of the nation. Vehicles imported by Diplomats are not subjected to PSI as they have cleared the vehicle with a Diplomatic Franchise at destination.

Documents required- While importing a used vehicle in Angola, importer should present the given documents in order to clear the customs smoothly.
  • Original Purchase Invoice
  • Copy of Entry Visa
  • Letter of Employment (must identify the name, job title, and company of person who will receive the vehicle as employed by the company).
  • Passport - copy, with Angolan entry visa stamps
  • Contributor Card “Cartão de Contribuinte" and “Resident Card” – copies
  • Declaration of Value letter signed by the shipper
  • Pack List – in English or Portuguese
  • Taxation Number (importation license)
  • Copy of airline ticket showing a valid coupon for a return flight.
  • If the vehicle is imported for companies, an import license is needed.

Clearance on a diplomatic shipment begins when the license is received, which can take more than 2 weeks to be issued. Clearance of non-diplomatic shipment requires all paperwork is in order.

Duties and Taxes:- Used vehicle imported in the country are subjected to duties and taxes.

Temporary Import:-
  • The vehicle is allowed to stay in Angola for 2 years with a possible one-year extension.
  • A bond deposit of 40-45% of CIF value is required. When the vehicle is re-exported, the deposit is paid back.

Definitive Import:-
  • Requires 40-45% tax based on CIF value.
  • Import taxes on all vehicles (except pick up with 5% tax) are 10% plus VAT.

VAT:- VAT on vehicles imported in the country depends upon the type of engine.
  • Gasoline engine:-
    • Up to 1500 cc: 10%
    • 1500 to 3000 cc: 20%
    • Over 2500 cc: 30%
  • Diesel engine:-
    • 1500 to 2500 cc: 20%
    • Over 25600 cc: 30%

Note- Vehicle should be cleared as soon as it reaches Luanda. Due to lack of documentation, if the vehicle is cleared any late i.e., after the 30th day following its arrival in the country, then it will be charged with 5% on the basis of CIF value.

Shipping Ports:-
Angola is located on the western Atlantic coast of southern Africa between Namibia and the Republic of the Congo. Being a landlocked country it does not have a port of its own. The nearest port to Angola is Durban, South Africa. RoRo (Roll-on Roll-off) shipping method is used for vehicle shipment. However, on request of customers more expensive yet safe container shipment method is used for vehicle shipment.

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