Driving into Zimbabwe: What you need to know about temporary import permits

Travellers driving into Zimbabwe in foreign-registered vehicles should take note of stricter controls on Temporary Import Permits (TIPs). The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) announced the changes in Public Notice No. 60 of 2026, issued on 21 October 2026, following concerns about abuse of the permit system.

The main point for travellers is that TIPs will ordinarily be issued for a maximum of 30 days. Longer stays may be approved on a case-by-case basis, but the total period cannot exceed three months.

Zimbabwe TIP requirements in 2026

Under the new measures, travellers bringing foreign-registered vehicles into Zimbabwe temporarily should be aware of the following requirements:

• Permit validity: Ordinarily up to 30 days, with longer stays subject to approval and a maximum total period of three months.
• Vehicle documents: The original vehicle registration book is required; a copy is not sufficient.
• Non-owner drivers: A letter of authority or affidavit is required if the vehicle is not being driven by its registered owner. Additional verification may apply.
• Extensions: Applications must be submitted before the permit expires and supported by valid reasons and relevant documentation.
• Leaving Zimbabwe: The vehicle must be re-exported before the TIP expires unless an extension has been granted.

These requirements are particularly relevant to overlanders planning longer trips through Southern Africa and travellers using vehicles registered in someone else's name.

Documents required at the border

According to ZIMRA, applicants should have the following documents:

• A valid passport.
• The original vehicle registration book.
• A letter of authority or affidavit if the registered owner is not driving.
• A work, employment, study or residence permit if the driver is a Zimbabwean citizen residing abroad.

ZIMRA may carry out additional checks, particularly for vehicles driven by someone other than the registered owner. Travellers using borrowed or company vehicles should arrange the necessary authorisation before departure.

The notice does not specify the requirements for rental vehicles. If you plan to drive a hire car into Zimbabwe, confirm the applicable procedures with your rental company and ZIMRA before travelling.

How much does a Zimbabwe TIP cost?

ZIMRA lists the following charges in its public notice: 

Charge	Amount
Carbon tax	US$10
Third-party insurance	US$30
Bridge toll (Beitbridge only)	US$9
Zimborders fee (Beitbridge only)	US$28
Total at Beitbridge	US$77

Note: The total includes only the charges listed above. Other fees may apply.

The bridge toll and Zimborders fee apply when using Beitbridge Border Post. The notice does not clarify whether the listed charges are new or unchanged, nor does it provide a comprehensive list of any other fees that might apply.

Travellers should confirm the charges applicable to their crossing before departure and carry sufficient funds to cover the costs.

Important conditions for TIP holders

A vehicle entering Zimbabwe under a TIP must remain under the control of the permit holder and cannot be disposed of in Zimbabwe without ZIMRA's approval.

The vehicle must also leave the country before the permit expires unless an extension has been granted. Permit holders should not leave Zimbabwe without their vehicle unless they have made prior arrangements with the nearest ZIMRA office.

If you need to extend your stay, submit your application before the existing permit expires and provide supporting documentation. Do not assume that an extension will be granted automatically.

Where to get further information

Travellers who are unsure about the requirements should contact ZIMRA before setting off, particularly if they plan to stay in Zimbabwe for more than 30 days or are driving a vehicle that is not registered in their name.

ZIMRA provides the following email contacts in Public Notice No. 60 of 2026:

• Beitbridge: BeitbridgePrivateImports@zimra.co.zw
• Plumtree: PlumtreePrivateImports@zimra.co.zw
• Harare: HararePortMotorTraffic@zimra.co.zw

Travellers returning to South Africa should also check the separate South African customs requirements for foreign-registered vehicles. These are not covered by ZIMRA's notice.

For most visitors, the ordinary 30-day TIP period should be sufficient. However, anyone planning a longer stay should confirm the arrangements in advance and ensure that the vehicle leaves Zimbabwe before the permit expires.

 

Subscribe for updates:

Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates, border info, road alerts, and travel inspiration for Southern Africa.