Wanting to reclaim VAT before leaving South Africa?
The Vat Refund Agency deals with VAT Refunds. Please carefully read the information available for the VAT Refund Agency on their website www.vatrefundagency.co.za
Brief Summary of the Procedure to claim a VAT refund.
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Take all invoices to the Customs office for inspection: get these invoices stamped.
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If under R5000 is claimed, your name, surname & address must be on the invoice.
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Up to R10 000 and over, they will need proof of payment (receipt if paid by cash or card payment slip) for each invoice provided.
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Once stamped by Customs, go to the VRA office in the harbour with all documentation, complete a POPI and Disclaimer form, and complete the claim form.
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Give your bank account details – NB it must be a foreign bank, as they cannot refund VAT to a S. African bank account.
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Make copies of all stamped documents before submission.
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Request a reference number.
It takes approx 3 months before a VAT refund is processed. Queries: support@vatrefundagency.co.za and/or info@vatrefundagency.co.za for any questions. Tel +27 10 025 6371.
Further queries or complaints: info@taxrefunds.co.za, bonita@taxrefunds.co.za. Tel +27 11 979 0055.
11 May 2026