Application Process

Independent Agency Notice: Famouz Consultants is a private commercial firm providing corporate administration and business advisory services. We are not a government agency, nor are we affiliated with CIPC, SARS, or any state department. Official government services can be accessed directly at cipc.co.za and sars.gov.za.

Step-by-Step SARS Customs Registration Workflow

Securing a SARS Customs Importer or Exporter Code involves statutory verification under the Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964. A single missing bank stamp, incorrect address document, or unaligned SARS eFiling profile can cause instant application rejections and weeks of delay.

Famouz Consultants streamliness the entire registration workflow into four clear steps—handling document audits, form compilation, and digital submissions via the official SARS Registration, Licensing, and Accreditation (RLA) platform.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

[Step 1: FICA Audit & Document Gathering]
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[Step 2: DA 185 & Annexure Compilation]
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[Step 3: Electronic SARS RLA Portal Lodgement]
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[Step 4: Customs Client Code Activation & Handover]

Step 1: Document Audit & Pre-Screening

We collect and pre-audit all required FICA documentation—including CIPC registration documents, certified director ID/passport copies, proof of address, and SARS Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PINs. We verify that all business details match your primary SARS eFiling profile exactly to prevent system validation errors.

Step 2: Statutory Form Compilation

Our compliance specialists compile your formal SARS registration pack:

Form DA 185: The core application for Customs and Excise Client Registration.

Annexure DA 185.4A1: Importer registration details (for local/foreign importers).

Annexure DA 185.4A2: Exporter registration details (for local/foreign exporters).

Annexure DA 185 D: Registered Agent nomination form (required if foreign directors operate without a local resident director).

Step 3: SARS RLA System Submission

We lodge your completed application directly through the SARS Registration, Licensing, and Accreditation (RLA) system. Our team manages queries, uploads requested supporting documents via the SARS Online Query System (SOQS), and liaises with SARS Customs officials to ensure smooth processing.

Step 4: Code Activation & Handover

Once approved, your official Customs Client Code is issued and linked directly to your company's SARS eFiling profile. You receive your official registration letter, allowing your freight forwarder or clearing agent to process port declarations (SAD 500) immediately.

Estimated Turnaround Times

Key Requirements to Avoid Application Delays

Bank Letter Accuracy: The bank confirmation letter must be on official letterhead, stamped by the bank, and match the legal entity name registered at CIPC.

SARS Representative Verification: The designated local director must already be verified as the active primary representative on the company’s SARS eFiling profile.

Recent FICA Documents: Proof of residence and telephone accounts must be strictly under 3 months old.