Step by Step: How to Import Motor Vehicles

Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS)

    •    Visit the Malawi Business Registration System (MBRS) website and create an account using your national ID number.

    •    Log in to your account and complete the online application form for business registration.

    •    Pay the required registration fees online through the provided payment options.

    •    Submit the application and wait for approval from the relevant authorities.

    •    Once approved, receive a notification and download the registration certificate in PDF format from your account.

See Procedure

Malawi Revenue Authority

• Download and complete the taxpayer registration form from the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) website or obtain it from an MRA office.

• Submit the completed form along with supporting documents, such as the business registration certificate, owner’s identification (e.g., national ID or passport), and proof of business address.

• The MRA verifies the submitted information and may request additional details if necessary.

• Once the registration is approved, the MRA issues a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN), which is required for tax compliance and correspondence with the authority.

• Registration for taxes is free of charge.

See Procedure

Ministry of Transport and Public Works

    •    Apply to the Ministry of Transport and Public Works by submitting a registration certificate, an introduction or application letter, and identification of the author.

    •    Companies must designate a registered proxy linked to a Traffic Registration Certificate.

    •    After registration, acquire a Traffic Registration Certificate to proceed with the importation process.

    •    Apply for a Motor Vehicle Importer Certificate, which is valid for 12 months. Fees vary based on the importer’s category:

    •    Foreigners, Indigenous Malawians, companies, and individuals importing vehicles for commercial purposes must obtain the certificate accordingly.

    •    Individuals or companies importing vehicles for personal use are limited to five vehicles per year.

    •    Application forms are available at all Road Traffic offices.

    •    Organizations must apply for a vehicle inspection and pay the associated fee before the Director issues an importer certificate.

See Procedure

MRA Customs

• Importers must first register with the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) to acquire a TPIN for tax purposes.

• Importers should hire a licensed customs clearing agent to handle the import declaration process.

• Gather necessary documents, including the commercial invoice, bill of lading/airway bill, packing list, and any applicable permits or certificates.

• The customs agent submits an import declaration electronically through the ASYCUDA World system, providing details of the imported goods.

• MRA Customs assesses the declaration, and the importer must pay applicable duties, taxes, and fees based on the declared goods.

• Customs may conduct physical or documentary inspections to verify compliance with import regulations.

• Once all duties are paid and inspections are cleared, the goods are released from customs for delivery to the importer.

• Depending on the type of goods, importers may need to obtain approvals from other regulatory bodies before customs clearance is finalized.

See Procedure