firearm importation

We partner with third-party services offer rifle importation permits and pre-approvals which we strongly recommend if you intend to bring your own firearm. This is an easy process. Below is a summary of what you will need to have your permit pre-approved. We recommend that you complete all pre-arrival tasks 60 days prior to departure. Please reach out at the time of booking if you're interested in bringing your own firearm.

1. Complete SAPS520 Application Form (make sure it is signed)

Download SAPS520 Form here.
Download instructions on how to complete SAPS520 Form here.

2. Copy of Photo Page of Passport

Valid for at least 4 months beyond your planned return.
Minimum of Three (3) blank pages left in passport.

3. Proof of ownership

Customs Declaration Form US4457 (obtain from your nearest customs office).
Always keep original stamped copy in your passport and keep photocopies.

4. Copies of Complete Itinerary as issued by your Travel Agent or copies of your return airline tickets

5. Proof of Export from Country of Origin ( US Customs Form 445)

A copy needs to accompany your application for US applicants.

6. Complete the Hunter and Rifle Import Info Form

Download the Hunter and Rifle Import Form here.

7. Important. The copies of the passport and US4457 form must be certified as true copies by your local sheriff or a notary

Conditions on arrival in South Africa

The South African Police Service (SAPS) Import/Export firearm office is located in the international arrival terminal. The office will be on your right hand side as you exit the arrival terminals A1 and A2.
On arrival clear passport control and then go to the Import/Export Office. Next to it is an area marked “Firearms and Security Items.”Here you will identify your rifle case and sign for it. You will not receive it yet.
Proceed to carousel to claim your baggage and then proceed to the green line at customs.
Exit customs where you will be met by a representative with your pre-approved permit if you applied to make use of this service.
They will take you to the SAPS Permits Office where they already filed all your rifle paperwork.
Your firearm(s) and ammo will be checked against your temporary import permit after which you will be free to leave.
You will be issued with a permit, check that your name, serial no and departure date is correct.
Keep rifle safe in your gun case and check it in to the Police Permits Office at time of departure for your rifle to be able to leave South Africa.
To transport your firearm in and out of the USA, the Customs Declarations Form 4457 is the only documentation you need.

Regulations for firearms and ammunitions – Very important

A maximum of 4 rifles, no more than ONE firearm or shotgun per calibre or gauge per client
Only 200 rounds allowed for each permitted firearm. Permits will only be issued for ammunition which is accompanied by a firearm of the same calibre.
Ammunition must be packed in a separate lockable box/case with checked luggage.
No person under 21 years of age may bring in a firearm.
Prohibited firearms that may not be imported are fully and semi-automatic weapons, semi-automatic shotguns, handguns for self-defence and weapons which fall under military categories.

This is a summary of the importation process for planning purposes only. Actual instructions are determined by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Import/Export Firearms Office and may change without notice.

We have a wide variety of quality rifles and shotguns for hire should you wish not to export and import your own rifle in and out of your own country. You will also be able to save about 6 hours of road travel if you rent rifles from us!