Relocation Guide
Importing a Vehicle to Jamaica
A step-by-step guide for returning residents importing a car — including duty concessions, eligibility, documents and costs.
Returning Resident Duty Concessions
Jamaicans who have lived abroad for at least 3 consecutive years are eligible for duty concessions on one motor vehicle imported within 12 months of their return date. The concession does not mean duty-free — it means reduced rates.
Important
The concession must be applied for through the Jamaica Customs Agency before the vehicle arrives. You cannot claim the concession after paying full duty.
Eligibility Requirements
Must be a Jamaican citizen or have Jamaican residency rights
Must have lived abroad continuously for at least 3 years
Vehicle must be imported within 12 months of your return to Jamaica
Only one vehicle per returning resident (per return)
Vehicle must be owned and registered in your name for at least 1 year
Vehicle should generally be under 5 years old (from manufacture date) for maximum concession
Documents Required
Valid Jamaican passport
Proof of 3+ years residence abroad (visa stamps, tax records, employment letters)
Vehicle title/registration in your name
Proof of vehicle ownership for 1+ year
Commercial invoice or bill of sale
Bill of lading from shipping company
Insurance certificate
Completed Jamaica Customs Agency C78 form
Estimated Costs
| Cost Item | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Shipping (20ft container, US to Kingston) | US$1,500–$2,500 |
| Shipping (UK to Kingston) | £1,200–£2,500 |
| Customs duty (with concession) | 10–30% of CIF value (varies by vehicle) |
| GCT (General Consumption Tax) | 15% of CIF value + duty |
| SCT (Special Consumption Tax) | Varies by engine size |
| Customs broker fee | J$30,000–$60,000 |
| Port charges / storage | J$20,000–$50,000 |
| Vehicle inspection & registration | J$15,000–$25,000 |
CIF = Cost, Insurance, Freight (the landed value of the vehicle in Jamaica). Duty rates depend on vehicle age, engine size, and type.
Step-by-Step Process
- Apply for Returning Resident status at Jamaica Customs Agency (can be done before arrival)
- Arrange shipping — use a licensed auto transport company or container shipping
- Hire a customs broker in Jamaica to handle clearance paperwork
- Vehicle arrives at Kingston Wharves — your broker handles customs clearance
- Pay applicable duties and taxes (with returning resident concession applied)
- Vehicle inspection at the Island Traffic Authority (ITA)
- Register the vehicle and obtain Jamaican licence plates
- Obtain motor vehicle insurance from a Jamaican provider
Tips
Right-hand drive (UK) and left-hand drive (US/Canada) vehicles are both accepted in Jamaica
Newer vehicles attract lower duty rates — vehicles under 3 years old get the best concessions
Hybrid and electric vehicles receive additional duty concessions
Consider buying locally instead if your vehicle is over 5 years old — concessions diminish significantly
Budget 3–6 weeks from shipping to having the vehicle road-ready
Japanese used vehicles (e.g. Toyota, Honda) are widely available and affordable in Jamaica