Import License Requirements

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.

What Is Required to Register as an Importer with SARS?

Under the Customs and Excise Act 91 of 1964, any business importing commercial goods into South Africa must register as an official Importer with SARS Customs & Excise.

Upon successful registration, SARS issues an official Customs Client Number (commonly known as an Importer's Code). Without this active code linked to your entity, clearing agents cannot lodge Bills of Entry (SAD 500) through customs, resulting in detained sea freight containers, air cargo holds, and costly port demurrage fees.

Famouz Consultants handles the complete compliance pack—auditing your FICA documents, compiling Form DA 185 and Annexure DA 185.4A1, and submitting via the SARS Registration, Licensing, and Accreditation (RLA) system.

Core SARS Importer Document Checklist

To lodge an error-free importer registration with SARS Customs, your company must provide the following verified documentation:

CIPC Registration Documents: Certified copy of your official CIPC Company Registration Certificate (CoR14.3 / CoR14.1).

Certified Director ID / Passport Copies: Clear, certified copies of Smart ID cards (both sides) or valid passports for all registered directors.

Stamped Business Bank Confirmation Letter: An original or bank-certified statement/letter on official bank letterhead confirming account details under the company's registered name.

FICA Proof of Operating Address: Municipal utility bill, formal lease agreement, or property statement (under 3 months old) confirming the physical operating address in South Africa.

Proof of Contact Number: Telkom, cellular, or utility account (under 3 months old) matching the company or registered representative's contact details.

Active SARS Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN: Proof of good tax standing and active Income Tax registration.

SARS Registered Representative Status: The designated local resident director must be updated and verified as the active representative on SARS eFiling.

Additional Requirements for Foreign Directors

If your South African (Pty) Ltd has foreign directors or shareholders, SARS Customs enforces strict local representation rules:

Nominated South African Registered Agent: A foreign entity or non-resident director operating without a South African resident director must formally nominate a legal Registered Agent located in South Africa using Form DA 185 D.

Local Liability Assumption: The appointed local agent assumes statutory responsibility and liability for all transactions processed with SARS Customs.

When Do You Need an Additional ITAC Import Permit?

While a SARS Customs Importer Code covers standard commercial new goods, certain restricted or regulated products legally require an ITAC Import Permit issued by the International Trade Administration Commission prior to shipping:

[Standard Commercial Goods] ───────> Requires: SARS Importer Code (DA 185)
[Restricted / Used / Controlled] ──> Requires: SARS Importer Code + ITAC Permit (IE 230 / IE 461)

Second-Hand & Used Goods: Used passenger vehicles, second-hand industrial machinery, refurbished electronics, and worn clothing.

Waste & Scrap Materials: Metals, environmental waste, or recyclable industrial materials.

Controlled & Strategic Commodities: Specialized chemicals, pharmaceuticals, arms, and strategic agricultural goods.

Turnaround Times & Delivery

>> SARS Importer Code Issuance: Typically processed within 5 to 10 business days via SARS RLA portal lodgement.
>> ITAC Permit Clearances: Takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks depending on the specific commodity directorate requirements.

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