Importing a Car into South Africa from the UK: ITAC Permits and SARS Duty

South Africa's International Trade Administration Commission (ITAC) tightly restricts used vehicle imports to protect the domestic motor industry. A permit is required before shipping and is generally only granted for specific categories: returning South African residents relocating with their vehicle after living abroad for at least six months, inherited vehicles, and certain specialist or vintage vehicles. General commercial import of used cars for resale is not permitted, so anyone shipping a UK car to South Africa must confirm eligibility and secure the ITAC permit before the vehicle leaves the UK — shipping first and applying later risks the vehicle being refused entry or re-exported at the owner's cost.

The most common route for UK-based individuals is the returning resident concession, which requires proof of at least six months' continuous residence abroad, ownership and use of the vehicle for a minimum period before return (typically 12 months), and permanent relocation back to South Africa. Only one vehicle per qualifying individual is generally permitted under this concession, and it must be for personal use, not resale. Our Transfer of Residence relief guide explains the equivalent UK-side considerations when planning the move.

Vehicles are shipped by container from Southampton, Tilbury or Felixstowe around the Cape or via the Suez Canal and Indian Ocean to the Port of Durban, South Africa's principal vehicle-handling harbour, with Cape Town used less frequently for personal vehicle imports. Transit time typically runs 3–5 weeks. RORO services are limited for this route, so container shipping — shared or dedicated — is standard, costing roughly £1,000–£1,500 depending on vehicle size.

Even with an ITAC permit and returning-resident status, South African Revenue Service (SARS) charges may apply unless full rebate conditions are met, which typically waive customs duty and VAT for genuine returning residents importing a single personal vehicle owned for the required period. Where rebate conditions aren't fully met, standard rates apply: 25% customs duty on light motor vehicles plus 15% VAT on the value plus duty. Required documents include the ITAC permit, V5C or bill of sale, commercial invoice, bill of lading, proof of the applicant's time spent abroad (passport stamps, employment contracts), and a SARS customs clearance application (SAD 500 form) usually lodged by a licensed clearing agent.

After SARS clearance, the vehicle must pass a roadworthy test at an accredited South African testing station before being licensed and registered with the provincial licensing department (eNaTIS system). Right-hand-drive vehicles register without difficulty since South Africa drives on the left, but imported vehicles must still meet local lighting, mirror and safety equipment standards, occasionally requiring minor modifications.

For a returning resident shipping a 2021 estate car valued at £16,000, qualifying for full rebate: shipping to Durban approximately £1,200, ITAC permit application and clearing agent fees £300–£500, roadworthy test and registration £150–£250, with duty and VAT waived under rebate conditions. Total additional cost: roughly £1,650–£1,950. Without rebate eligibility, the same vehicle would face an additional £4,000–£4,600 in duty and VAT — underscoring why confirming rebate status before shipping is critical.