Customs rolls out framework for temporary importation of personal vehicles by international travellers

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has rolled out a new framework to simplify the process for international travellers bringing personal vehicles into Nigeria temporarily or transiting through the country.

In a statement on Thursday, Abdullahi Maiwada, the NCS spokesperson, said the initiative is anchored on the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and relevant international conventions on temporary admission and transit of vehicles.

Maiwada said the framework applies to all personal, non-commercial vehicles owned by international travellers visiting Nigeria for tourism, diplomatic, business, or personal purposes.

“It seeks to ease cross-border movement, strengthen Nigeria’s compliance with international obligations, and reinforce the nation’s commitment to trade facilitation and regional integration,” he said.

“It is pertinent to note that this implementation draws legal backing from Sections 142, 143, 144, and 245 of the NCS Act, 2023, as well as the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC), UN TIR Convention (1975), Istanbul Convention (1990), and the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence, and Establishment.

“It also aligns with WCO Guidelines on Temporary Admission and the Carnet de Passages en Douane (CPD) regulations.

“International travellers are required to present valid documents such as international passport, international driver’s licence, vehicle registration, insurance, and CPD at the point of entry.

“Upon satisfactory inspection and verification, a Temporary Vehicle Admission Permit valid for up to 90 days will be issued and electronically recorded. Travellers may apply for an extension of up to 30 days, subject to approval by the relevant Customs Area Controller.

“Vehicle admitted under this regime are free to move within Nigeria but cannot be sold, leased, transferred, modified, or used for commercial purposes.”

Maiwada added that travellers are required to present the vehicle and customs temporary admission declaration at the point of exit and notify customs immediately in cases of accidents, theft, or breakdowns.