If you are returning to Zimbabwe and planning to import your car or personal goods, the Immigrants Rebate allows you to bring one motor vehicle duty-free. However, VAT is still payable, and several strict requirements must be met.
This guide explains everything you need to know, including the difference between long-term and short-term returning residents, documents required, new inspection rules, and car import conditions.
What Is the Immigrants Rebate in Zimbabwe?
The Immigrants Rebate is a government incentive that allows qualifying returning residents to import:
*) One motor vehicle (duty-free, VAT still applies)
*) Personal and household goods
This rebate is granted once per lifetime and is meant to support Zimbabweans relocating back home.
Categories of Returning Residents (Key Distinction)
To determine eligibility, Zimbabwe classifies returnees into two groups:
1. Long-Term Returning Residents (Qualify for Duty-Free Car Import)
A long-term returning resident is someone who:
Lived outside Zimbabwe for at least 2 continuous years, AND
Is returning permanently to settle in Zimbabwe
Long-Term Resident Requirements
To qualify for duty-free vehicle importation, you must provide:
Proof of Stay Outside Zimbabwe
Passport stamps
Travel history
Utility bills
Lease agreements
Bank statements (3–6 months)
Legal Stay Documents
Work permits
Residence permits
Study permits (current or expired)
Work or Study Evidence
Employment contract
Engagement letter
Payslips (2 years or more)
Termination letter
Student enrolment letter, transcripts, certificates
Proof of Goods Ownership
Vehicle registration book (must be in your name)
Invoices / agreement of sale
Proof of Funds
Payslips
Bank statements
Tax returns
Zimbabwe Immigration Requirements
Passport endorsed with “Returning Resident – Accepted” on arrival
Provide old + current passports if more than one used
Other Required Documents
Export clearance from the country of export
Proof of residence in Zimbabwe (ZESA/Water bill)
2. Short-Term Returning Residents (Do NOT Qualify for Duty-Free Car Import)
Short-term returning residents are individuals who:
Lived outside Zimbabwe for less than 2 years, OR
Are returning temporarily
Short-Term Returnee Limitations
Do NOT qualify for the Immigrant Rebate on motor vehicles
Must pay full duty + VAT
Goods may not qualify for full rebate
Documents Still Required
Passport and travel history
Legal stay permits
Proof of funds and ownership
Export documents
Requirements for Returning Workers
If returning after working abroad, you must have:
Employment contract
Engagement letter
Termination/resignation letter
Payslips (minimum 2 years)
Bank statements / tax returns
Proof of residence abroad
Workers qualify only if they meet the 2-year stay requirement.
Requirements for Returning Students
Returning students qualify if they completed their studies and are returning after receiving results.
Student Requirements
Acceptance letter from college/university
Student permit (current or expired)
Passport showing departure date
Transcripts or results proving course completion
Bank statements / proof of funds
Goods must be fully paid for and belong to the student
First return after receiving results = official return date
Motor Vehicle Import Requirements (Under Immigrant Rebate)
To import your car duty-free (VAT still payable), you must have:
Mandatory Documents
Vehicle registration book (in your name)
Invoice or sale agreement
Export clearance documentation
SARPCO / de-registration certificate (for SADC countries)
Proof of residence in Zimbabwe (ZESA/water bill)
Latest Car Import Rules (Important Updates from ZIMRA)
1. Minimum Ownership Period
You must have owned the vehicle for at least 6 months before returning to Zimbabwe.
2. VAT of 15% Must Be Paid
VAT applies on the vehicle’s value.
USD/ZAR for private cars
RTGS for pickup trucks
3. Mandatory Pre-Export Inspection
All private vehicles must be inspected by a ZIMRA-approved Quality Assurance Agency, such as:
EAA JAPAN OR EAA ZIMBABWE
This inspection must be done before the vehicle leaves the exporting country.
Contact EAA Zimbabwe on info@eaa.co.zw or call 0242 796225