Preparing carefully can help you avoid preventable problems and submit with greater confidence. It does not guarantee eligibility, approval, a refund amount or payment timing.
If the answers below point in the right direction, continue preparing your evidence. This check is guidance—not an eligibility decision.
Start with these questions
Are the goods movable and being taken out of South Africa?
Does the VAT-inclusive total exceed R250?
Can the goods and original invoices be presented for inspection?
Can the goods be exported within 90 days from the tax-invoice date?
Can the claim be handed in within 90 days from the date of departure?
Foreign enterprises, diplomats and South African passport holders’ claims may need additional evidence. Eligibility, approval and payment remain subject to verification.
Step 2
Prepare the documents you will need
Tick the items you have ready. This checklist is a preparation tool and does not confirm eligibility.
If the invoice exceeds R5,000 including VAT, ensure that your name and address are clearly indicated on the invoice. For purchases over R10,000, retain proof of payment. An externally added “Tax invoice” stamp may not satisfy invoice requirements.
Step 3
Complete the required goods inspection
Keep goods accessible with your passport and original invoices. Present the goods to Customs officials, VRA officials, or both, depending on the departure point and the goods. Where Customs inspection is required, Customs performs the primary inspection and VRA may conduct a secondary inspection. Complete all required inspections before the goods become inaccessible.
The required documentation is influenced by the point of departure, whether inspection has been completed and the type of claimant you are. Please share your documentation and information only through verified VAT Refund Agency channels and email addresses.
A complete pack is worth the preparation.Submitting gives VRA the opportunity to assess the claim; it does not guarantee approval or payment.
Submit the required documents through the applicable in-person or postal claim route. You can begin a claim online through VRA’s official registration website ↗. Goods inspection and original-document requirements still apply.
Step 5
Keep the reference and track the next action
After submission, keep the claim reference. If information is requested, submit only the exact details or documentation through the approved secure channel. Do not make duplicate submissions unless instructed.
