Retail Beyond Borders (Pty) Ltd
Import / Export License
We help South African businesses and individuals obtain and manage their Import / Export Licenses so they can trade across borders legally, efficiently and with confidence.
Our team guides you through the SARS registration process, documentation requirements and practical steps needed to keep your license compliant and up to date.
What is an Import / Export License?
An Import / Export License is a registration with SARS that authorises your business or you as an individual to import and/or export goods.
It is a legal requirement for most cross-border trade activities and is used by customs and tax authorities to monitor trade flows, manage risk and ensure
compliance with South African law.
Before you can import or export goods, SARS must be satisfied that your registration details are correct and that your business or personal profile is suitable for customs purposes. This includes accurate contact information, banking details, tax status and, where applicable, company registration information.
Important Information for Importers and Exporters
- All supporting documents must be submitted as clear, legible copies. Incomplete or inconsistent information can lead to delays, queries or refusal of your Import / Export License application.
- Business Registration Requirements: If you are applying as a company, close corporation or trust, your business must be correctly registered with CIPC and SARS, with up-to-date details that match your license application and commercial documents.
- Personal Capacity Registration: If you are applying as an individual, you will need to provide your ID, tax number, residential address and other personal details so that SARS can assess and approve your registration.
- Important Notes: All documents must be submitted according to the timelines and formats required by SARS. Any changes in your business structure, contact details or trading activities should be communicated so that your Import / Export License remains valid and accurate.
Certain products require secondary permits from specialized authorities which, while separate, remain intrinsically linked to your primary Import / Export License.
Retail Beyond Borders identifies exactly which of these specific requirements apply to your goods and manages the entire secondary application process on your behalf.
