Country Guide: Malawi-Blantyre

Updated: November 23, 2015

Household Goods and Personal Effects

Documents Required

  • Copy of Passport
  • Packing list
  • Original Bill of Lading (OBL) / no Express Release / Air Waybill (AWB)
  • Original valued inventory in English dated and signed by the shipper
  • Invoices for all electrical items less than 6 months old
  • Employment Contract
  • Diplomatic Exemption (Diplomats)

 

Specific Information

  • The agent must receive documents at least 15 days prior to arrival of the shipment to allow agent time to apply for a duty exemption on the used household goods.
  • The shipper must be present during the clearing process.
  • New personal effects are subject to 30% to 80% tax on declared value.
  • The Diplomatic Mission will apply for documents on behalf of the shipper with the local Ministry of Foreign Affairs and must have copies of the OBL / AWB and packing list to initiate Customs clearance (Diplomats).

Motor Vehicles

Documents Required

  • Copy of Passport
  • Original Registration Card
  • Shipper`s Employment Contract
  • Original Purchase Invoice
  • OBL / AWB

 

Specific Information

  • Taxes on vehicles will depend on age, power, etc. of approximately 95% to 150% cost, insurance and freight (CIF).
  • The OBL must show chassis number, engine number, cubic capacity, year of manufacture, brand and model.

Pets

Documents Required

  • Veterinary Health Certificate
  • Valid Vaccination Record

 

Specific Information

  • Current vaccinations and permission from nearest Embassy are required for the importation of live animals.

Restricted/Dutiable Items

  • Alcohol (subject to taxes)
  • New electrical, electronic Items and computers are subject to 50% to 150% tax on the declared value
  • One used computer is granted duty free.
  • Firearms and ammunitions (authorization from the territorial administration required)

Prohibited Items

  • Illegal drugs
  • Pornography
  • Explosive materials
  • Counterfeit items

Consignment Instructions

Recommended:  Contact the destination agent to ensure all requirements have been met prior to import, especially for differences regarding air / sea shipments.

 

 

 

Helpful Website(s):

http://www.state.gov/p/af/ci/mi

http://www.malawiembassy-dc.org