Moving to Mauritania

Country Guide

Country Guide: Mauritania

Due to the current coronavirus/COVID-19 situation and restrictions in various countries, the below information may not be accurate. This pandemic is a fluid situation. Check with authorities for local laws and restrictions concerning movements.

Updated: November 28, 2016

 
Used Household Goods and Personal Effects

Documents Required

  • Copy of passport
  • Packing list
  • Original bill of lading (OBL) – or express release / air waybill (AWB)
  • Original valued inventory in French, dated, and signed by the owner of the goods
  • Invoice for all electrical items less than 6 months old
  • Resident permit / letter from employer / diplomatic card
  • Non-sale certificate (must state that client will not sell personal effects in Mauritania)

Specific Information

  • Used household goods may be imported duty free.
  • All containers may be checked by Customs (including diplomatic shipments).
  • The OBL must be accurate and declare all import items.
 
Motor Vehicles

Documents Required

  • Original registration card
  • Insurance certificate
  • Change of residence certificate
  • Copy of passport

Specific Information

  • Vehicles older than 8 years cannot be imported.
  • Import taxes depend on the age of the vehicle as outlined:
    • New vehicle: 78% of the car value
    • Used vehicle: 50% of the car value
    • Duty free for diplomatic vehicles or temporary admission.
  • Chassis number, engine number, and weight of the vehicle must be stated on the OBL.
  • Documents must be received by agent 1 week prior to importation.
 
Pets

Documents Required

  • Rabies vaccination certificate
  • Health certificate

Specific Information

  • Rabies vaccination certificate and health certificate are required from the country or origin.
  • Dogs and cats of less than 3 months old are exempt from sanitary regulation requirements.
 
Restricted/Dutiable Items
  • Sporting guns may be temporarily admitted (authorization from the Home Ministry prior to arrival is required in addition to gun and import licenses).
  • The following items may be imported duty free with the limits indicated:
    • Cigarettes (200), cigars (25), tobacco (1 lb.)
    • Perfume (50 grams), eau-de-cologne (1/4 liter)
 
Prohibited Items
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Pork and pork products
 
Consignment Instructions

Recommended: Contact agent to ensure all requirements have been met prior to import, especially for differences regarding air / sea shipments.

 
Cultural and Other Information

CIA World Factbook Entry for Mauritania

Wikipedia Entry for Mauritania