Buyers in Kazakhstan increasingly source cars from the UAE. Here’s what to know about customs before you buy. Last checked: 21 October 2026.

Customs duty

According to Kazakhstan’s State Revenue Committee (KGD), the import duty for most petrol and diesel passenger cars, new or up to seven years old, is 15% regardless of engine size (el.kz report of the KGD answer). Older cars may be calculated differently, so check with customs for vehicles over seven years.

Recycling fee

A recycling (utilisation) fee also applies. Its calculation method was updated by a March 2026 ministerial order, with different coefficients depending on the country of origin (order No. 54). Ask a customs broker for the current amount for your vehicle category.

VAT and registration

VAT and registration costs are added on top of duty. Ask a licensed customs representative to calculate your total cost before you buy.

Which cars sell well

Dubai exporters report strong demand from Kazakhstan for luxury SUVs such as the Lexus LX/GX and Toyota Land Cruiser, plus the Toyota Camry (exporter report). Because these cars are LHD and usually GCC-spec, check that their cooling and emissions systems suit your climate and registration rules.

Shipping

There is no single standard route. Forwarders combine sea and overland legs. We have not verified typical costs or transit times, so ask for a door-to-door quote including all transit documents.

Documents

• Commercial invoice and proof of payment
• Transport documents (bill of lading / CMR)
• UAE export certificate
• Vehicle technical documents for registration

Checklist before paying

• Confirm the age and the duty band.
• Get the recycling fee calculated.
• Verify the exporter’s UAE trade licence.
• Get an independent inspection and the accident history.

Step-by-step: from Dubai to registration in Kazakhstan

• Agree the car and get a pro-forma invoice from a licensed UAE exporter.
• Arrange an independent inspection and check the history in Dubai.
• Ask a Kazakh customs broker to calculate duty, recycling fee and VAT for that exact car.
• Pay the exporter’s company account and get the UAE export certificate.
• Ship via your forwarder’s route and track the transit documents.
• Clear customs in Kazakhstan, pay the fees and complete registration.

Keep copies of every document. Missing paperwork is the most common cause of delays at the border.

Frequently asked questions

Are cars older than seven years allowed?

Duty for older cars may be calculated differently. Check with KGD or a customs broker for vehicles over seven years before you buy.

Do electric cars pay the recycling fee?

Recycling fee rules depend on vehicle category and origin. Ask a broker to confirm the current amount for your car.

Should I buy GCC-spec for Kazakhstan’s winters?

GCC-spec cars are built for heat. Check the battery, coolant and heating suit cold winters, and budget for winter tyres.

Can a Dubai exporter handle customs in Kazakhstan?

Some exporters work with partners in Kazakhstan. Clarify in writing exactly what is included: shipping, customs representation, recycling fee and registration support.

How do I pay safely?

Pay a verified UAE company account that matches the invoice, and check the exporter’s trade licence. Never pay personal accounts.

Guidance only. Rules change often; confirm with KGD or a licensed customs broker.