FAQS
The import and export of plants, plant products, and other regulated articles are controlled to prevent the introduction and spread of plant pests and diseases. Before importing or exporting, you must obtain the required documents: a Plant Import Permit (PIP) for imports and a Phytosanitary Certificate for exports, as applicable.
- Plant Import Permit (PIP): An official document issued by KEPHIS authorising the importation of plants, plant products, or other regulated articles, subject to specified phytosanitary requirements.
- Phytosanitary Certificate: An official document, or its authorised electronic equivalent, confirming that an export consignment meets the applicable phytosanitary requirements of the importing country.
You can apply for a Plant Import Permit or a Phytosanitary Certificate through the Integrated Export-Import Certification System (IEICS). You must first register on the system.
For registration and access, visit the IEICS platform at ieics@kephis.org
According to the KEPHIS Service Charter, the standard processing times are:
- Phytosanitary Certificate: Approximately 1–3 hours for fresh or dry produce, once all requirements have been met and payment completed.
- Plant Import Permit (PIP): Approximately 1–3 hours after the online application and all required supporting information have been submitted.
When exporting plants and plant products, you may need the following documents, depending on the requirements of the importing country and the commodity:
- Phytosanitary Certificate issued by KEPHIS.
- Certificate of Conformity, where applicable.
- Import permit from the importing country, where required.
- Commercial invoice.
- Packing list.
- Inspection report.
When importing plants and plant products into Kenya, you may need the following documents:
- Plant Import Permit issued by KEPHIS.
- Phytosanitary Certificate issued by the country of origin.
- Packing list.
- Inspection report.
Many plants and plant products can be imported or exported, provided they meet the applicable phytosanitary requirements. However, some commodities may be restricted, require special permits or treatments, or be prohibited.
Importers and exporters should confirm the requirements for their specific commodities before shipping to avoid the risk of introducing pests and diseases.
Plants, plant products, and other regulated articles are classified according to their phytosanitary risk. They may fall into the following categories:
- Permitted commodities: Commodities that may be imported subject to the applicable requirements and permits.
- Commodities subject to quarantine: Materials that must undergo post-entry quarantine for testing and monitoring before they can be released.
- Prohibited commodities: Materials whose importation is not allowed because of their phytosanitary risk or applicable regulations.
Always confirm the status of a commodity with KEPHIS before importing it.
KEPHIS inspectors check the required documents and physically examine consignments at entry and exit points. The inspection helps confirm that the consignment meets the applicable phytosanitary requirements and is free from injurious pests and diseases, as required.
An interception occurs when an imported consignment is found not to comply with phytosanitary requirements and is stopped or subjected to regulatory action.
A consignment may be intercepted for reasons such as:
- Failure to comply with the conditions of the Plant Import Permit.
- Presence of quarantine pests or other regulated pests.
- Failure to declare the consignment.
- Missing, incomplete, or invalid supporting documents, including a Phytosanitary Certificate.
- Lack of additional declarations or treatment
If your consignment does not meet the required phytosanitary standards, KEPHIS may take the following actions:
- Reject the consignment.
- Detain the consignment pending corrective action.
· Treatment (e.g., fumigation or other approved phytosanitary treatment) at the importer/exporter’s cost
· Re-exportation to the country of origin
- Destruction of the consignment.
- Suspend or cancel the relevant permit, where applicable.
Failure to comply with phytosanitary requirements may result in the following actions, depending on the applicable law and the nature of the violation:
- Interception of the consignment.
- Destruction of the consignment.
- Fines or penalties as provided by law.
- Re-exportation of the consignment to the country of origin.
· Legal action Including prosecution under relevant laws for deliberate or repeated non-compliance.
KEPHIS has inspection offices and service points across Kenya including:
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
- Mombasa International Airport.
- Eldoret International Airport.
- Mombasa Port.
- Lamu Port.
- Shimoni.
- Lunga Lunga.
- Taveta.
- Loitoktok.
- Namanga.
- Isebania.
- Mbita Port.
- Busia Border.
- Malaba Border.
- Suam Border.
- Moyale Border.
- Kitale.
- Nakuru.
- Naivasha.
- Muguga.
- Nyeri.
- Embu.
- Timau.
- Bura.
- Kitui.
Karen, Nairobi. Please contact KEPHIS to confirm the availability of services at your preferred location
Importers and exporters can contact KEPHIS for assistance, enquiries, or complaints through the following channels:
- Call the official customer service or helpdesk numbers: 0709 891 000
- Send an email to the relevant official KEPHIS contact address: director@kephis.org/kephisinfo@kephis.org
- Visit the KEPHIS Head Office or a regional office.
- Use the help or contact section of the IEICS platform.
- Submit a written letter or formal complaint to a KEPHIS office.
- Complete a feedback form at a designated inspection or service point.
- Use our social media platforms: LinkedIn- Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service (KEPHIS)
- X & You-tube - @KEPHISKE
- KEPHIS Website- WWW.KEPHIS.GO.KE