Temporary Vehicle Imports Into South Africa: New SARS Declaration Rules Explained
SARS has announced that, from 1 June 2026, all vehicles entering South Africa temporarily will require a temporary import declaration, including vehicles registered within the Southern African Customs Union (SACU). SACU includes South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho and Eswatini.
This change follows Section 15 of the Customs and Excise Act, which requires all goods entering South Africa to be declared at the border. SACU-registered vehicles had previously been exempt from this declaration process due to operational constraints. The updated requirement will now apply at all South African border posts.
This article explains the difference between temporary and permanent vehicle imports and answers some of the most common questions surrounding the new declaration process.
Understanding Temporary and Permanent Vehicle Imports
A temporary import refers to a vehicle that is registered outside South Africa and brought into the country for a limited period before being taken out again. A permanent import, on the other hand, involves importing a vehicle with the intention of keeping it in South Africa permanently, whether for personal use, resale, or commercial operations.
Permanent vehicle imports are subject to strict regulation in South Africa. These controls are intended to support the local automotive manufacturing sector, maintain safety standards, and manage environmental considerations. As a result, permanently importing a vehicle requires extensive approvals and supporting documentation.
The recent SARS update only affects temporary vehicle imports. If you intend to permanently import a vehicle into South Africa, a separate process still applies.
Who Will Be Affected by the New Requirement?
The declaration requirement applies to foreign-owned vehicles entering South Africa temporarily and leaving again after a short stay. This commonly includes tourists, business travellers, and foreign nationals entering South Africa with foreign-registered vehicles for temporary use.
The vehicle must leave South Africa in substantially the same condition in which it entered. The updated process also applies to individuals transporting a vehicle into South Africa on behalf of someone else.
This differs from permanent importation rules, which generally apply to returning South African residents or individuals with permanent residence status who are permitted to permanently import vehicles registered in their own names.
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How To Complete the Temporary Import Declaration
SARS has introduced an electronic declaration process to improve efficiency and reduce delays at border crossings. Travellers are encouraged to complete the process before arriving at the border, although a manual option remains available if needed.
Declarations may be completed electronically through:
- SATMS on the SARS website
- The SARS MobiApp
- QR codes available at customs ports of entry and exit
Where the electronic system is unavailable, travellers may complete the process manually using the TC-01 and TRD1 forms at Customs.
If a trailer is entering South Africa together with the vehicle, it must also be declared on the same TRD1 form. Where a trailer leaves South Africa separately from the original towing vehicle, travellers should retain copies of the original documentation.
Permanent vehicle import applications involve a far more detailed procedure. This generally includes obtaining approval from the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications (NRCS), permission from the International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC), and an import licence from SARS. Required documentation may vary depending on whether the applicant is a South African citizen or a permanent resident.
Documents and Information Required
To complete a temporary import declaration, travellers will generally need the following documents:
- A valid passport
- A valid driver’s licence (an International Driving Permit is recommended)
- Original vehicle registration documents
- Proof of ownership
- An authorisation letter if the vehicle belongs to another person
Applicants may also be asked to provide:
- Travel details where applicable
- Details of travelling companions
- Contact information
- Accommodation addresses while in South Africa
- Any additional customs declarations, such as goods or currency
Validity Period of the Temporary Import Permit
A SARS Temporary Import Permit (TIP) is generally valid for up to six months.
Travellers who need to keep the vehicle in South Africa for longer may apply for an extension if they hold a qualifying long-term visa, such as a work or study visa. Extension applications must be submitted in person at a SARS branch and should ideally be lodged at least 30 days before the permit expires.
Supporting documentation, including a valid work or study permit, will be required for the extension request.
Another option for longer overland travel is a Carnet de Passage en Douane (CPD). A CPD is an internationally recognised customs document that allows vehicles to cross multiple international borders and can remain valid for up to 12 months. This process is administered separately from SARS and is generally used by tourists travelling across several countries in the same vehicle.
Processing Times
Where the declaration is submitted electronically and all supporting information is correct, temporary import permits are typically issued within minutes.
Conclusion
Travellers entering South Africa with foreign-registered vehicles should ensure they are prepared for the updated declaration requirements coming into effect on 1 June 2026. The rules, which previously excluded SACU-registered vehicles, will now apply to all temporary vehicle imports at South African borders.
To avoid unnecessary delays, travellers should prepare the required documentation in advance and complete the declaration electronically before arriving at the border.
If you require assistance with permanently importing a vehicle into South Africa, our team can assist with the application process and supporting documentation.
Find more help wit your import logistics, original resources, leading-edge training, and assistance with customs licenses on Trade Logistics.
