Lodge an Import Declaration Form (IDF) and get import permits on the KenTrade single window
Kenya Trade Network Agency · sources read 2 Oct 2026
Your clearing agent lodges the IDF, and the KenTrade single window then creates a UCR number for your consignment. Pay the UCR fee (USD 10) on eCitizen before any permit can be created; which permits you need depends on your goods' HS code.
- Fee
- Each UCR costs USD 10, or the same in Kenya shillings.
- Where
- Online on the KenTrade Trade Facilitation Platform (single window), usually through your clearing agent; pay on eCitizen
What you need
- Import Declaration Form (IDF), customs entry and the supplier's commercial and pro forma invoices
Steps
- Hire a licensed customs clearing agent. They prepare and lodge the IDF and customs declaration for your goods.
- The single window creates a UCR (Unique Consignment Reference) from the IDF, marked 'Pending Payment'.
- Pay for the UCR through eCitizen from the pending payments menu. No permit can be created until it's paid.
- Apply for the permits your goods need (for example from KEBS, KEPHIS or PPB). The HS code decides which ones, and the transaction waits until each agency approves.
- Track progress on the Trader Portal (Track Status, then Track Approval Status) or check IDF and UCR status in the MyKenTrade app.
Watch out
- Every UCR costs USD 10 (or the shilling equivalent), even for exports or goods that need no permit.
- UCR fees are not refunded, even if the permit is declined or you don't use it.
- A bulk IDF with many UCRs is charged for each UCR.
Who can apply
- Registered importers, exporters and their customs agents on the single window
Official sources (4)
- FAQs: Commencement of the NESWS (General) Regulations 2024 kentrade.go.ke · read 2 Oct 2026
- Frequently Asked Questions: The National Electronic Single Window System (2026) kentrade.go.ke · read 2 Oct 2026
- How to Import kra.go.ke · read 2 Oct 2026
- Trade Facilitation Platform (login) tfp.kenyatradenet.go.ke · read 2 Oct 2026