R2,875.00

If you’re planning to import or export goods in South Africa, you usually need SARS Customs importer/exporter registration — and only for certain goods you may also need an ITAC import/export permit.

This fee covers the route check + SARS registration support and, if required, assistance with one standard ITAC permit application. Multiple permits, highly controlled categories, or additional tariff lines are quoted separately.

  • Typical turnaround: 1–3 weeks (depends on inspections/permits)

Category:

Description

Import & Export Licence Assistance in South Africa (SARS + ITAC)

If you’ve searched “import/export licence”, you’ve probably noticed the terminology online is confusing — because people use “licence”, “permit” and “certificate” as if they’re the same thing. In South Africa, most businesses actually start with SARS Customs importer/exporter registration, and then only certain categories of goods require an ITAC import or export permit.

This service is for businesses that want the process handled properly from the start — with the right applications submitted to the right authority, with clean documentation, and with follow-ups done until the registration/permit is issued.

What’s included

We start by confirming what you actually need for your situation (SARS only vs SARS + ITAC), then we handle the paperwork end-to-end.

You’ll receive:
• A quick compliance check to confirm the correct route for your goods
• SARS Customs importer/exporter registration application support (where required)
• ITAC permit application support (only if your goods fall into a controlled category)
• Document preparation + consistency checks (to reduce back-and-forth)
• Submission + follow-ups and status updates
• Final handover of your approval details and next-step guidance

What this service does NOT include

To avoid surprises, please note:
• Customs duties, import VAT, freight, clearing agent fees and port charges are not included
• Product testing, Letters of Authority, or sector-specific approvals (where required) are not included unless quoted separately
• If any third-party disbursements are required for your specific goods category, we will confirm this with you before proceeding

What we need from you (so we can start immediately)

Once you place the order, we’ll email you a short checklist, but in most cases we’ll request:
• Company details (name, registration number, registered address)
• Director / authorised person details (ID + contact details)
• Proof of address documents (where applicable)
• SARS eFiling access or the info needed to proceed (depending on the route)
• A clear description of the goods you want to import/export (and HS code if you have it)
• Supplier / customer details and a pro-forma invoice (if available)

If you’re not sure about the HS code, we’ll guide you based on the product description you provide.

Turnaround time (typical)

Turnaround time depends on whether any inspections or permit requirements apply.

As a guideline:
• SARS Customs registrations are often processed within a few business days when no inspection is required, and can take longer when an inspection is required.
• ITAC export permits can take up to a few weeks depending on the category.

We’ll keep you updated throughout and let you know early if your goods fall into a category that typically takes longer.

Helpful guides (read before you apply):

Prefer not to checkout online?

If you’d rather not purchase online, you can still use this page as your service information page and contact us — our team will be in touch to help start the same process.

FAQs

Do I need an import/export licence for all goods?
No. Many goods don’t require a special permit. Most businesses start with SARS Customs importer/exporter registration, and only certain controlled or restricted goods require an additional ITAC import or export permit.
Who issues the import/export licence in South Africa?
SARS handles customs importer/exporter registration. ITAC issues import/export permits for specific controlled categories of goods (when required).
Where do I apply for an import permit or export permit?
SARS registration is done via SARS customs/RLA channels. ITAC permits are applied for through ITAC when your goods fall into a category that requires a permit. We confirm the correct route and handle the submissions.
How long does it take?
Timing depends on whether inspections or controlled-goods permits apply. As a guideline, SARS registrations can be quick where no inspection is required and longer where an inspection is required, and ITAC export permits can take up to a few weeks depending on category.
How much does an import/export licence cost?
Government fees are not always the “main cost” people feel — most costs come from duties/VAT and logistics (freight/clearing/port fees). Our fee covers the admin, preparation and follow-ups for registration/permit applications.
Do I need an export certificate?
Sometimes. “Export certificate” can mean different documents depending on the goods (e.g., certificates of origin, sector certificates, etc.). We’ll confirm what applies to your goods and destination.
Can I apply on my own?
Yes, but it’s easy to lose time with incomplete documents or the wrong application route. This service is designed to save you time and reduce the risk of delays.
What happens if I export/import without the required permit?
If your goods require a permit and you don’t have it, your shipment may be delayed, detained or rejected. It’s best to confirm requirements before shipping.
What do I receive at the end?
You’ll receive the relevant approval/registration details for the route that applies to your goods (SARS registration, and ITAC permit if required), plus clear next steps for shipping/clearance.

Related products