Kenya’s main seaport, Mombasa port, handles most of the country’s imports, making efficient clearance essential for traders.
Applying for a customs entry at the Port of Mombasa is a structured process overseen by the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA).
Here’s how importers can navigate it smoothly.
Prepare Key Import Documents
Mombasa port importers must gather a complete set of paperwork before cargo arrives.
Essential documents include a Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, packing list, Import Declaration Form (IDF), and the importer’s KRA PIN certificate.
Certificates of Conformity from the Kenya Bureau of Standards and permits for restricted goods may also be required.
Engage a Licensed Clearing Agent at Mombasa port
Only KRA-licensed clearing and forwarding agents can lodge customs entries.
The agent submits the C63 declaration through the Integrated Customs Management System (iCMS) and uploads all supporting documents.
Importers at Mombasa port first pay the Import Declaration Fee, which is 2.5 percent of the customs value or a minimum of USD 50.
Pay Duties and Taxes
After the entry is lodged, KRA assesses the shipment and issues a Payment Registration Number (PRN).
Also Read: How to Track Mombasa Port Cargo Online via eCitizen
Duties such as import duty, VAT, and the Railway Development Levy (if applicable) are paid electronically through the iTax platform or M-Pesa Paybill 572572.
Steps to Pay Mombasa Port Charges via eCitizen
1.Log in or register on eCitizen:
Go to the eCitizen portal (ag.ecitizen.go.ke) and sign in with your credentials. If you don’t have one, register with your Kenyan ID number.
- Find the Relevant Service:
Use the ‘Search or Browse Services’ section to locate the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA) service. - Generate the Invoice / Reference:
Once you select the correct KPA service, the system should generate an invoice or payment reference.
This reference is what you’ll use to make the actual payment at Mombasa port.
Also Read: KPA Issues Urgent Notice on Containers and Cargo at Mombasa Port
It includes details like your container number or manifest number.
- Pay via eCitizen Payment Options:
eCitizen supports multiple payment channels. You can pay using:
- Mobile money (M-Pesa or equivalent) using the eCitizen Paybill number (222222) and the reference/account number from your invoice.
- Bank transfers or mobile banking if your bank supports eCitizen payments.
- Other options, depending on the system (such as digital wallets or integrated banking apps), can be accessed via the eCitizen payment gateway.
- Receive Confirmation / Receipt:
After payment is successful, a receipt or confirmation should be available on eCitizen. Download or print this. It will serve as proof of payment. - Submit Proof to Mombasa Port Authorities/ Clearing Agent and Proceed with Cargo Release:
With your proof of payment, either directly or via your clearing agent, present it to KPA and any other agencies (customs, etc.). Once all dues are cleared, the release order (Delivery Order) and gate pass can be issued.
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