Country Guide: Malawi-Lilongwe
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
- 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).
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)
- 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.
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