If you’ve searched “how to get an import and export licence in South Africa”, you’ve probably noticed the advice online can be confusing — mostly because people use licence, permit, code, and certificate as if they’re the same thing.
In reality, most South Africans who say “import/export licence” are talking about SARS Customs registration (importer/exporter registration). Then, only in certain cases, you’ll also need an ITAC permit because the goods you’re importing or exporting are controlled or restricted.
This guide gives you the real process in the order you’d actually follow it — so you don’t waste time applying in the wrong place, or submitting incomplete paperwork.
Step 0: Confirm what you’re importing/exporting (this decides everything)
Before you apply anywhere, get clear on:
- What the goods are (exact description, material, use)
- Where they’re coming from / going to
- Whether they’re new or used (used goods often trigger extra controls)
Why this matters: the “licence vs permit” question is usually answered by whether your goods are considered restricted/controlled (permit) or just a standard import/export (registration + normal customs clearance).
If you skip this and guess, you end up doing the wrong application — and that’s where delays happen.
Step 1: Decide if you’re importing as a private person or as a trader/business
This is where many people overcomplicate things.
If it’s personal use
SARS allows private individuals to import personal goods under a generic code (70707070) up to a cumulative R150,000 per calendar year — after that, you must apply for a formal customs code to continue.
So if you’re only importing occasionally for yourself, you might not need full trader registration yet.
If it’s business/resale (or you’ll import regularly)
Then you’re usually looking at SARS Customs importer/exporter registration — the thing most people call an “import/export licence.” SARS uses the RLA (Registration, Licensing and Accreditation) platform on eFiling for customs-related registrations.
Step 2: Register as an importer/exporter with SARS Customs (the “licence” most people mean)
This is the core step for most businesses.
Where do you apply?
Through SARS eFiling via the RLA platform (customs registrations).
Who issues the import/export licence?
For this part: SARS Customs.
Typical turnaround time
SARS notes customs registrations are generally processed within 5 business days where no inspection is required, and up to 21 business days where an inspection is required.
(That’s why it’s smart to apply before your goods are already on the way.)
Step 3: Check whether your goods require an ITAC permit (only for controlled goods)
This is where “import/export licence” becomes misleading — because for some goods, you need more than SARS registration.
Gov.za’s process summary is basically:
- Register with SARS first, then
- apply to ITAC for permits where required.
ITAC also explains permits and their processes via Import & Export Control and provides export permit procedures and forms.
Where do you apply for an import permit / export permit?
If your goods require a permit, you’re typically applying via ITAC Import & Export Control (using the relevant application forms/procedure).
How long do ITAC permits take?
ITAC states export permits may take up to 15 working days (import permits are often quicker, depending on the case).
How long is an export permit valid?
Permits are usually time-limited. One ITAC guideline document notes export permits are valid for customs clearance/exportation for no more than 60 days from date of issue (in that guideline).
Step 4: Put your “documents pack” together (so nothing bounces back)
I’m not going to dump a massive checklist here (that’s our dedicated “requirements” post), but the practical point is:
Most applications get delayed because of:
- mismatched company details across documents,
- unclear goods descriptions (or missing tariff classification work),
- missing supporting documents (especially when permits are involved),
- or applying at the wrong authority (SARS vs ITAC).
We covered the full document checklist in the next post — but the big win is: prepare your documents before you submit anything, not while your shipment is already moving.
The simple version (quick step list)
If you want the “quick map,” here it is:
- Step 1: Confirm goods + whether you’re personal-use or a business/trader
- Step 2: If business/trader → register on SARS eFiling (RLA) as importer/exporter
- Step 3: If goods are controlled/restricted → apply for ITAC permits
- Step 4: Keep an eye on timeframes (SARS: 5–21 business days; ITAC export permits: up to 15 working days)
- Step 5: Export permits can have short validity windows (often shown on the permit itself)
That’s the real-world flow.
Common questions people ask mid-process
“How do I know if I need an export licence?”
Most of the time you’re asking whether you need:
- SARS exporter registration (trader setup), and/or
- an export permit because your goods are controlled.
If you’re unsure, don’t guess — confirm the route before shipping. (It’s much cheaper than fixing a stuck shipment.)
“Can I get one ‘import/export licence’ that covers everything?”
Not usually as one single thing. Think of it like:
- Registration (SARS) = your ongoing trader setup
- Permits (ITAC) = only when your goods need special permission
If you want to avoid delays (and save time)
If your goal is to do this once, correctly, with minimal back-and-forth:
- you want someone to confirm whether you need SARS only or SARS + ITAC, and
- package your application properly the first time.
