South African Rifle Permit

Introduction

Planning a hunting trip to South Africa? One of the essential preparations is obtaining a rifle permit. Here’s everything you need to know to ensure a smooth process and compliance with South African regulations.

Form SAP520

To legally bring your rifle into South Africa, you must complete Form SAP520. We will send you this form upon receipt of your booking deposit.

• Complete Page 2 – E2.1 to E25.4: Natural Person’s details.
• Complete Page 4 – G1 to G5 and G8 through G9.2: Import/Export Details.
• Complete Page 5 – I1.1 to I5: Details of Firearms and Ammunition.

Important Instructions:

• Do Not Sign: You must sign this form in South Africa.
• Date Format: Use year/month/day format.

For guidance on filling out your form, please view this sample E520 form.

Proof of Ownership

You will need to provide proof of ownership for your firearms:

• USA: Custom Form 4457. Obtain this form online or from your local Customs and Border Patrol office. This must be signed by a US Customs Officer before your trip (take your gun to your local international airport’s customs office prior to your trip).
• UK or Europe: Copy of your firearm license.

Invitation Letter

We will provide you with an Invitation Letter. You will need to add your personal details and firearms details to this letter.

Airline Ticket and Passport

• Airline Ticket: Show a Xerox copy of your airline arrival and departure details at the South African Police Station upon arrival.
• Passport: Provide a notarized Xerox copy of your passport. Make a copy and have a notary public official sign and stamp it.

Procedures through Johannesburg Airport

Upon Arrival in South Africa:

1. Exit the plane and go through Passport Control.
2. Collect your regular luggage (not rifle cases) from the conveyor belt and exit through Customs.
3. Proceed on the Green line through customs.
4. Exit the arrivals hall and look for an Africa Hunt Lodge representative holding a sign with your name.
5. Take a right and locate the SAP Firearms office to review and sign for your permit and rifles.

What Firearms You Can Bring

Rifles and Shotguns:

• Maximum of two (2) firearms or shotguns per hunter, not more than one of the same caliber or gauge.
• Only 200 rounds for each permitted firearm or shotgun are allowed.
• No ammunition for other firearms (not accompanying you) is permitted.
• Firearms must bear the manufacturer’s serial number for identification, found on the barrel, frame, or receiver.

Handguns:

• Allowed into the country but must be used for hunting only. This requires letters from both the hunter and the outfitter stating such.

Shotguns:

• Only side-by-side, over/under, or pump shotguns are permitted.

Ammunition:

• Most airlines from the United States allow up to 10-11 lbs of ammunition when traveling. Ammo must be in the original box or a securely packed container (no loose ammo). Ammo can be packed in your checked luggage or rifle case, but check with your airline.
• Firearms must be checked in a hard-sided case with a lock.

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Conclusion

Preparing for your hunting trip to South Africa requires careful attention to details, especially regarding rifle permits and regulations. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. For more information, visit our detailed guide or contact us directly.