Driving to Zimbabwe this December? Here is how much you will pay at Beitbridge

Zimbabweans living in South Africa who are planning to drive home for the December holidays should budget for at least US$77 (approximately R1 273) in border-related charges when entering the country through Beitbridge.

The amount covers several payments, including the Beitbridge bridge toll, Zimborders access fee, third-party insurance and carbon tax.

With the festive season approaching, motorists are being encouraged to prepare their documentation and finances before making the journey to avoid unnecessary delays at the busy border post.

According to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), travellers entering Zimbabwe with foreign-registered vehicles must comply with Temporary Import Permit (TIP) requirements.

Breakdown of Beitbridge charges for light vehicles

Motorists travelling in light vehicles, including ordinary passenger cars, should budget for the following charges:

Charge	US dollar amount	Approximate rand value
Bridge toll/gate pass	US$9	R149
Zimborders access fee	US$28	R463
Third-party insurance	US$30	R496
Carbon tax	US$10	R165
Total	US$77	R1 273

The conversions use an indicative exchange rate of US$1 to R16.53 on 11 November 2026.

Actual amounts in rand may vary depending on the exchange rate and payment arrangements.

ZIMRA confirmed the US$9 bridge toll and US$28 Zimborders fee for motorists using Beitbridge, while the US$30 insurance and US$10 carbon tax also apply to qualifying foreign-registered vehicles.

The Zimborders tariff schedule lists the light vehicle access fee at US$28, including VAT.

The charge is part of the fees collected for using the Beitbridge border infrastructure.

Motorists must apply for Temporary Import Permits

Apart from budgeting for the charges, motorists should ensure they have applied for a Temporary Import Permit before travelling.

ZIMRA operates an online e-TIP platform that allows motorists to submit their vehicle, ownership and driver details before arriving at the border.

Applicants are required to provide information such as their passport details, vehicle registration information, intended entry and exit dates and, where applicable, trailer details.

After completing the application, motorists receive a reference number by email, which they must present to a ZIMRA officer at the border.

The authority recently tightened controls on foreign-registered vehicles, with TIPs ordinarily issued for periods not exceeding 30 days.

Longer stays are considered on a case-by-case basis, subject to a maximum of three months.

Zimbabweans living abroad should also ensure they have the necessary supporting documents, including proof of their foreign residence or employment where applicable.

With December travel expected to increase traffic at Beitbridge, completing the necessary preparations before departure could help motorists avoid additional complications during their journeys.