The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) has issued a public notice giving customs agents, warehouse operators, and transporters 31 days to renew their operating licenses. The deadline for submission is October 31, 2025, with strict requirements set for compliance.
Customs Agents and Brokers
KRA directed all customs agents also known as clearing and forwarding agents to submit their renewal applications through the Integrated Customs Management System (iCMS) platform. Each application must include:
- A duly filled Form C20
- Current (2024) Certificate of Registration (CR12/CR13)
- A valid company tax compliance certificate
- Certificate of Bond and debt clearance
- Previous C21 license
- Clearance from the Kenya International Freight and Warehousing Association (KIFWA)
These agents act as intermediaries between traders and the KRA Customs Department, ensuring goods move in and out of Kenya smoothly.
Transporters of Transit Goods
Transporters applying for C28 and C40 licenses must present:
- Motor vehicle logbook copy
- Valid insurance certificate
- COMESA Yellow Card for foreign vehicles
- Duly filled application form endorsed by a Customs Officer
A compulsory license fee of $200 (Ksh25,873) applies to each license sought. Applications can be submitted at regional KRA offices in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, or Eldoret.
Warehouse Operators and MUB Facilities
Operators of bonded warehouses, Manufacture Under Bond (MUB), and transit godowns must submit:
- Valid 2025 operating license
- Security bonds
- Current CR12
- Lease or title deed valid beyond the license period
- Company and directors’ tax compliance certificates
- Audited 2024 financial accounts
- Completed Form C18 signed by both operator and Customs Officer
KRA emphasized that submitting documents does not guarantee approval, as further vetting will follow.
Bonded warehouses and MUB facilities play a vital role in trade by allowing duty-free storage and importation of raw materials, provided conditions are met.
