Cars Made Before 1931 Don’t Need Import Licence: ZIMRA Clarifies Ban On Vehicles Older Than 10 Years

No Licence Needed For Pre-1931 Cars Entering Zimbabwe: ZIMRA Confirms

The Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) has clarified that cars manufactured before 1931 can now be imported into Zimbabwe without the need for an import licence, despite the general ban on vehicles more than ten years old.

ZIMRA explains exemption

In a statement published on 14 August 2025, ZIMRA explained the new provisions under Statutory Instrument 45 of 2025.

The authority said:

“In terms of Statutory Instrument 45 of 2025, motor vehicles classified as vintage motor vehicles can now be imported without a licence. Notwithstanding the ban on importation of motor vehicles that are ten years or older from the date of manufacture, vehicles classified as ‘vintage vehicles’ in accordance with the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Act [Chapter 13:14] are exempted from the requirement of import permits.”

The exemption means that vehicles considered “vintage” under Zimbabwean law can cross borders into the country without restrictions from the Ministry of Industry.

What counts as a vintage vehicle

ZIMRA highlighted that the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Act defines a vintage motor vehicle as one that has been inspected and approved by an authorised officer as meeting specific criteria.

The authority stated:

“According to the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Act [Chapter 13:14], a vintage vehicle is any vehicle manufactured before 01 January 1931, or one composed mainly of materials manufactured before 01 January 1931.”

This clarification puts to rest concerns among classic car enthusiasts and collectors about whether Zimbabwe’s ban on older vehicle imports extended to rare and historic cars.

Benefits for importers and cultural ties

The authority also outlined the benefits of this exemption.

ZIMRA said:

“This exemption allows owners of vintage vehicles to import their vehicles across borders into Zimbabwe without trade barriers in the form of licences. It promotes goodwill and cultural diplomacy through shared appreciation of classic engineering without unnecessary trade restrictions.”

The announcement has been welcomed by car collectors and vintage vehicle clubs across the country, who had previously expressed fears that strict import rules could make it impossible to bring in rare cars.

ZIMRA concluded its notice by stressing that the information was provided for awareness purposes only.

The tax collector added:

“This article was compiled by the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) for information purposes only. ZIMRA shall not accept responsibility for loss or damage arising from use of material in this article and no liability will attach to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority.”

The authority urged the public to reach out for further details through its contact centre.