SouthAfrica.

Right-hand drive

Yes — mandatory (LHD vehicles are banned from South African roads except those registered before July 2004)

Maximum vehicle age

No formal maximum; vehicles over 20 years attract a reduced duty rate of 20% versus 36% for newer vehicles

Required documentation

Import permit (ITAC form IE462 from International Trade Administration Commission) · Letter of Authority from NRCS (National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications) · Commercial invoice · Bill of Lading · Certificate of origin · Original logbook / export documents · Certificate of roadworthiness · Valid passport (for importer)

Customs duty

18% for UK-origin vehicles (reduced from 25% standard under post-Brexit UK–South Africa trade arrangements); 36% for vehicles under 20 years from other origins; 20% for vehicles over 20 years

VAT / local tax

15% VAT on adjusted dutiable value (VAT and duty exempt for returning residents and immigrants on one vehicle)

Registration cost

ZAR ~205 (registration) + ZAR ~400 (license disc); annual licensing ZAR 432–1,836 depending on vehicle weight

Roadworthiness inspection

Yes — roadworthiness certificate required before registration; performed at local testing stations

Notable restrictions

Import permits are highly restricted to specific eligible categories. Euro II minimum emission standard (upgrading to Euro V required). Port storage costs ZAR 500–2,000 per day — clear promptly. NRCS Letter of Authority is mandatory.

Port clearance time

5–14 working days (24–48 hours for clean shipments; ITAC permit takes 4–5 days to issue)

Buyer note

Verify your eligibility for an import permit before purchasing a vehicle — permits are only issued to returning nationals, immigrants, and specific qualifying categories.