Passport and Visa Services

Import regulations by South africa customs

South African customs passenger allowances entitle you to bring new or used goods of up to R3 000 in value into the country without paying any duty. For additional goods, new or used, of up to R12 000 in value, you will be charged a flat rate 20% duty. Thereafter, normal customs duties apply.

You can also bring in, duty-free, the following:

* Wine - up to 2 litres per person.
* Spirits and other alcoholic beverages - up to 1 litre in total per person.
* Cigarettes - up to 200 per person.
* Cigars - up to 20 per person.
* Cigarette or pipe tobacco - up to 250g per person.
* Perfume - up to 50ml per person.
* Eau de toilette (scented liquid lighter than cologne) - up to 250ml per person.

The alcohol and tobacco allowances only apply to people over 18.

All currency must be declared on entering the country.

Customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export of items such as firearms, religious materials, antiquities, medications, business equipment and other items . It is advisable to contact the Embassy of your destination country in Washington or one of that countrys consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements.

Export regulations by South africa customs

Taking rands out of South Africa
When you leave the country you are permitted to take up to R500 in South African Reserve Bank notes. A 20% levy is charged on amounts above R500.

Will I have to pay tax on goods I buy in South Africa?
Value Added Tax (VAT) is levied on most goods and services, but as a foreign national you may reclaim VAT on anything you bought for over R250 to take out of the country unused. You need to do this before you embark on your flight home, and will have to produce the original tax invoice for the item.

Other South africa customs information

In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are widely available. Transactions involving such products are illegal and bringing them back to the United States may result in forfeitures and/or fines. A current list of those countries with serious problems in this regard can be found here. U.S. Customs and Border Protection may impose corresponding import restrictions in accordance with the Convention on Cultural Property Implementation Act. (Contact CBP at 202-344-1000 or Internet http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/import/commercial_enforcement/ for further information). For general travel information, visit the CBP web site at http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/travel/.

http://www.southafrica.info/plan_trip/travel_tips/questions/redtape.htm http://travel.state.gov/