How to Get an Import Licence in South Africa (2026 Guide)
Updated October 2026
To get an import licence in South Africa, you register with SARS Customs as an importer and receive a customs client code. Registration is free and you can do it yourself online through SARS eFiling, without paying an agency. Most new products need nothing more. Only certain goods, such as second-hand items and other controlled products, also need a separate import permit from the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC).
This guide explains the difference between an import licence and an import permit, the documents you need and how to apply step by step. For the full importing process, from finding suppliers to working out your landed cost, see our complete guide to importing products to South Africa.
Import licence vs import permit: what's the difference?
South Africa does not issue a single document called an "import licence". When people search for an import licence (or "import license"), they usually mean SARS importer registration. An import permit is a separate approval needed only for certain goods.
| Item | SARS importer registration | ITAC import permit |
|---|---|---|
| Also called | Import licence, customs client code, import/export licence | Import permit |
| Who needs it | Anyone importing goods to resell or regularly importing | Only importers of controlled or second-hand goods |
| Issued by | SARS Customs | ITAC |
| Cost | Free | Check with ITAC |
| How often | Once, then kept up to date | Per product or consignment, as required |
Some products also need approval from other regulators before they can be sold. These are covered further down.
Do you need to register as an importer?
Yes, if you are importing goods for a business. SARS states that any person who imports goods into South Africa must register as an importer.
Private individuals can import small amounts using the general customs code 70707070. SARS has tightened this. From 20 November 2025, declarations under 70707070 are automatically rejected once a person's imports exceed R150,000 in a calendar year, according to the SARS communiqué on the 70707070 customs code. Above that limit, you must apply for your own customs code before your goods can be cleared.
If you are importing stock to sell online, register from the start. It avoids delays at customs and makes it easier to claim back import VAT if you are VAT registered.
How much does an import licence cost in South Africa?
Registering as an importer with SARS is free. You do not need to pay a company to do it for you.
Some businesses advertise "import export licence" services for a fee. They complete the same free application on your behalf. If you are comfortable with eFiling and have your documents ready, you can do it yourself. A clearing agent can also help, and many will assist when you use them to clear your goods.
Documents you need
Gather these before you start, as listed on the SARS importer registration page. Certified copies are needed where shown.
- Certified copy of your ID (applicants must be over 18 with a permanent South African address)
- Proof of address, such as a municipal account
- A Telkom or cellphone account no older than three months
- Proof of bank details: a bank-stamped statement or a letter from your bank on its letterhead
- Certified company or close corporation registration documents, if you trade through a business
- Certified SARS letters confirming your tax registrations, such as income tax and VAT
- A resolution or letter of authority, if someone is applying on behalf of the business
Do you need a company?
No. You can register as an importer as a sole proprietor using your own ID and tax number. Many sellers who import regularly use a private company for liability and banking reasons, but it is not a requirement for registration.
How to apply for an import licence step by step
The quickest way to register is online through SARS eFiling, using the Registration, Licensing and Accreditation (RLA) system.
- Log in to SARS eFiling, or register for an eFiling profile if you do not have one.
- Link your business profile to your individual profile, if you are registering a company.
- Assign RLA user rights to your profile.
- Capture the customs client application and select the client types you need, such as importer.
- Upload your supporting documents when asked.
- Submit the application and track its progress in your eFiling inbox.
Once approved, SARS issues your customs client code. Give this code to your clearing agent or courier so that your imports are declared under your own registration.
Applying in person
You can also apply at a SARS Customs branch. SARS lists Alberton, Cape Town, Durban, OR Tambo International Airport, Port Elizabeth and Pretoria as branches that handle customs client applications. Book an appointment and take all your documents with you.
Register as an exporter at the same time
If there is any chance you will send goods out of South Africa, such as returning faulty stock to a supplier or selling to customers in neighbouring countries, register as an exporter in the same application. It is also free and saves you a second application later.
Do you need EDI registration?
Only if you plan to submit customs declarations yourself. Most small importers use a licensed clearing agent or a courier's clearing service, and in that case you do not need to register for electronic data interchange (EDI).
When you also need an import permit
Most new consumer goods need only your SARS registration. You need an ITAC import permit if you import controlled goods or any used or second-hand goods.
According to ITAC's import control page, all used or second-hand goods need a permit, and about 276 of roughly 6,650 tariff lines are under import control. Controlled goods include new pneumatic tyres, certain chemicals, fossil fuels, firearms and gambling devices. ITAC says applications take about three to five working days on average. Apply before your goods are shipped.
Other approvals to check
Some products need approval from other regulators, either before import or before you can sell them.
| Product type | Approval needed | Regulator |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical and electronic goods | Letter of Authority (LoA) | NRCS |
| Wireless and Bluetooth devices | Type approval | ICASA |
| Animals and animal products | Veterinary import permit | Department of Agriculture |
| Plants, seeds and plant products | Plant import permit | Department of Agriculture |
| Fish and marine products | Import permit | Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment |
| Medicines and health products | Registration or permit | SAHPRA |
If you are unsure, ask your clearing agent to check your product's tariff code before you order. Our post on what products you can't sell online in South Africa covers the categories online sellers most often run into.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Paying for something that is free. SARS importer registration costs nothing.
- Relying on 70707070 for business stock. Once you pass R150,000 in a year, your goods can be held until you register.
- Ordering before checking permits. Goods that need a permit can be detained at the port, and storage charges add up quickly.
- Importing second-hand goods without a permit. All used goods need an ITAC permit.
- Letting your details go out of date. Update your registration on eFiling if your address, bank details or directors change.
What to do once you are registered
With your customs client code in place, you are ready to import. Next you need to choose a supplier, agree shipping terms, appoint a clearing agent and work out what you will pay in customs duty and VAT. These guides will help:
- The complete guide to buying from Alibaba in South Africa
- Customs fees for importing products into South Africa
- The complete guide to importing products to South Africa
Frequently asked questions
How much does an import licence cost in South Africa?
Nothing. Registering as an importer with SARS is free. You only pay if you choose to use an agency or consultant to apply for you.
How long does it take to get an import licence?
SARS does not publish a set turnaround time. Applications submitted with complete, correct documents are processed faster. You can track progress in your eFiling inbox, so apply well before your first shipment.
What is the difference between an import licence and an import permit?
An import licence usually means SARS importer registration, which every commercial importer needs. An import permit is issued by ITAC and is only needed for controlled or second-hand goods.
Can I import without a licence?
Private individuals can import small amounts under the general code 70707070, up to R150,000 in a calendar year. If you are importing stock to resell, you should register as an importer.
Do I need an import export licence to sell on Takealot or Amazon?
Not to sell locally. You need importer registration if you import the stock you sell. Marketplaces may ask for compliance documents for regulated products.
Learn to import with confidence
Registering as an importer is the easy part. Choosing the right products, suppliers and shipping options is where most of the profit is made or lost. Our free mini course on importing products into South Africa walks you through the process in plain language. When you are ready to build a full online business, explore Insaka's eCommerce courses at insaka.co.za.
Written or reviewed by Warrick Kernes, founder of Insaka eCommerce Academy and Shopify's 2021 Top Education Partner worldwide, based on 15+ years of selling online in South Africa.
