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Importing Firearms

Importing Firearms into South Africa for Hunting

International hunters traveling to South Africa with their own firearms are required to obtain a Temporary Import Permit (SAP 520) upon arrival.

The SAP 520 form can be sourced from your outfitter or downloaded from the South African Police Service (SAPS) website. To speed up the process at the airport, it is advisable to complete the form in advance.

Completing the SAP 520 Form

You may complete the SAP 520 form before you arrive in South Africa to save time. However, please ensure that the form remains unsigned, as it must be signed in the presence of a South African Police Service official upon arrival.

 

When filling out the form, please take note of the following:

  • Complete the document using black ink
  • Do not sign the form beforehand — signatures must be done in front of a SAPS official
  • Only certain sections are required for hunting purposes
    Sections to Complete:
    • Section D (Temporary Import Permit)
    • Section E (Questions 1–25.4)
    • Section G
    • Section I (All fields must be completed)
    • Section J (Signature — leave blank until instructed)

Arrival Procedure in South Africa

At ports of entry such as Johannesburg:
  1. Clear immigration/passport control
  2. Collect your general luggage
  3. Retrieve firearms from the airline’s designated desk
  4. Proceed directly to the SAPS Firearm Office
  5. Obtain your temporary import permit
  6. Declare firearms at customs (Red Channel)

Time Planning

Due to high volumes during peak hunting season, we recommend allowing a minimum of three hours to complete all firearm clearance procedures.

Handgun Regulations

Handguns may be imported strictly for hunting use. A supporting letter from a recognised association in the hunter’s home country is required.

Restricted Firearms

The following are not permitted for import into South Africa:

 

  • Fully automatic firearms
  • Semi-automatic firearms
  • Handguns intended for self-defence
  • Military-style weapons

Firearm & Ammunition Limits

  • Maximum of one firearm per calibre
  • Up to 200 rounds of ammunition per firearm
  • Ammunition must match the calibre of the firearm

Shotguns:
Additional shotguns of the same calibre may be permitted if properly motivated for bird hunting.

Fees and Handling

  • SAPS does not charge any fee for issuing the permit
  • Hunters are advised not to pay unofficial personnel for assistance
  • Airlines may apply legitimate handling fees — confirm in advance

Additional Notes

  • No permit is required for bows (airline handling fees may still apply)
  • SAPS does not provide firearm storage
  • Non-compliant firearms must be exported or surrendered

     

Documents Required on Arrival

To obtain your temporary import permit, you will need the following:
Travel Documents:
  • Valid passport
  • Return flight ticket
Supporting Documentation:
  • Proof of Ownership
  • Firearm licence or official documentation
  • U.S. hunters may use Form 4457
  • Export Documentation
  • Proof that the firearm is exported from your country of origin
  • Letter of Motivation (Hunter)
  • Stating purpose of visit (hunting)
  • Firearms being brought into the country
  • Species intended to hunt
  • Invitation Letter (Outfitter)
  • Outfitter’s business details
  • Hunting dates and location
  • Confirmation of firearm usage

Permit Conditions

Temporary import permits are issued under the following conditions:
  • Firearms may only be used for hunting
  • Permits are valid for a maximum of 6 months
  • Firearms must leave South Africa with the permit holder
  • Firearms may not be transferred or loaned without official approval
  • Applicants must be 21 years or older
Failure to declare firearms on arrival may result in serious legal consequences.

Travel Considerations

  • Firearms should travel on the same flight as the owner
  • Only the owner may collect the firearm from the airline
  • If firearms arrive separately:
  • A permit must be obtained locally
  • A licensed transport agent must be arranged

Transit Through South Africa

  • If firearms are checked through to your final destination and you remain in transit, no permit is required
  • If you need to collect and recheck firearms, full import procedures will apply

Rifle Hire Option

A large number of our clients choose to hire rifles directly from Soft and Solid Big Game Safaris rather than travel with their own firearms.

 

This option eliminates paperwork, reduces travel risks, and allows you to focus entirely on your hunting experience.

Travel Considerations

Based on past client experiences, transporting firearms—particularly on routes through Europe—can sometimes result in delays or logistical issues. In some cases, rifles may arrive late or sustain damage in transit.

 

For this reason, we always recommend carefully considering the rifle hire option for a more convenient and reliable experience.