LEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Importation of fire arms - Arms and ammunition Act

Recently several visiting clients with guns encountered problems at the Johannesburg International Airport. It seems a directive aimed at foreign diplomats was being misapplied. We have been assured that the problem has been rectified.
   In view of this recent problem, we requested the South African Police Services to reconfirm the legislation currently in place. They have kindly provided us with the following information and advised us that there have been no recent changes in the rules/law concerning the temporary import of firearms in to South Africa.

VISITORS (PASSPORT HOLDERS)
   A temporary Import Permit (SAP 312) for a visitor will be issued for the period of 90 to 180 days. When a visitor departs from the country he MUST take the firearms as stated on the import permit with him. He is not allowed to leave any of the firearms mentioned on the Sap 312 in South Africa. 
   

   Visitors who Arrive in South Africa without  an Import can apply on arrival at the Customs and Excise Office at their port of entry. Such visitors must be advised to declare the particular firearms at Passport Control. A reasonable amount of firearms will be allowed into the country, on discretion of the applicable parties. A reasonable amount of ammunition per caliber is allowed. Any visitor to South Africa must have proof of ownership of their firearms, for example license and/or export permit from their country of origin.
   Prohibitions of firearms are: (Section 32 of the Arms and Ammunition Act, 1969 (Act No 75 of 1969)).
-  Automatic Rifles.
-  Semi-automatic Rifles (will be allowed on special motivation).
-  Automatic or Semi-automatic Shotguns.
-  Hand Carbines.

   The following limitations (issued by Foreign Affairs) exist on firearms for Diplomats:
-  One handgun.
-  One single or double barrel shotgun.
-  Two hunting rifles.

For more information or assistance, you can contact Capt. (f) R. Kruger of the Central Firearm Register, South African Police Services, Tel: +27 12 353 6057 Fax: +27 12 353 6041.

The Head: Arms Control
Central Firearm Register
Private Bag X811
Pretoria
0001
South Africa

Some Legal Requirements for Hunting in South Africa

Be sure your operator is licensed. A foreign client is not allowed to hunt in South Africa unless: the hunt has been organized by a licensed hunting outfitter, and he/she is guided on the hunt by a licensed professional hunter. Professional hunters/hunting outfitters must hold licenses for each province where they operate.

Be sure to get a written agreement. It is law that a written agreement must be entered into between the client and hunting outfitter prior to the commencement of the hunt. Such agreement to include species, sex, fees for trophies, services provided, duration of the hunt and daily rates, etc.