Returning Residents are able to import a vehicle into South Africa duty free  when they move back to South Africa. The obvious reason for importing a vehicle is cost – vehicles are significantly cheaper in the UK and Asia than in South Africa, and it therefore makes economic sense to import a vehicle when you return to South Africa (see below for example of prices). To qualify you have to have been out of the country for a minimum continuous absence of 6 months.  

The importation of used or second-hand goods is subject to import control measures in terms of the provisions of the International Trade Administration Act (Act 71 of 2002). A synopsis of the criteria for importing a vehicle duty free is outlined below: 

1. The returning resident or national may import his/her used or second-hand passenger vehicle or LDV to a maximum of three vehicles if he/she returns permanently to the RSA after a minimum uninterrupted period of absence of six months working, studying or conducting research abroad.
2. It is also required that the vehicle be registered in the name of the returning resident/national for the minimum uninterrupted corresponding period of six months (working etc.) prior to the return.
3. The imported vehicle may not be disposed of within a period of two years of importation.

We can assist in obtaining an import permit for anyone wishing to utilize this route and any prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to contact us first before returning with a vehicle, so we can first apply for and obtain an import permit.  

Please note that all imported vehicles are subject to an SABS letter of authority, again we can assist in obtaining this although we make no representations that your vehicle will be eligible therefore. Please note that these guidelines may change without prior notice.  

Example of Price difference between vehicles in UK and South Africa The table below gives examples of two similar vehicles and their prices from autotrader.co.uk (left) and autotrader.co.za (right) websites to illustrate the differences in prices of vehicles in the UK and South Africa. The table shows the significant cost saving that can me made by importing a vehicle duty free when returning to South Africa.