Firearm Import Permits

FIREARM IMPORT PERMITS

Bringing Your Rifle to Africa

Across Africa Tours & Safaris welcomes hunters who wish to bring their own firearms on safari. To ensure a smooth arrival process, it is important that all firearm import requirements are completed before your departure.

Our team will assist you with the necessary documentation and provide guidance throughout the permit application process.

SOUTH AFRICA FIREARM IMPORT PERMIT

Hunters entering South Africa with a firearm are required to obtain a Temporary Firearm Import Permit (SAPS 520) issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS).

We strongly recommend completing the SAPS 520 form before travelling, but do not sign the form until instructed to do so by a SAPS officer upon arrival.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

The following documents are generally required:

• Valid Passport
• Completed SAPS 520 Application Form
• Copy of Flight Itinerary or Return Airline Ticket
• Proof of Firearm Ownership
• Firearm Licence or Registration Certificate
• U.S. Customs Form 4457 (for U.S. hunters)
• Proof of Export from Country of Origin (where applicable)
• Invitation Letter from Across Africa Tours & Safaris
• Safari Booking Confirmation

All firearm serial numbers must match exactly on every document submitted.

AMMUNITION REGULATIONS

Hunters may only import ammunition for the calibre of firearm being imported.

We recommend:

• 40–60 rounds for Plains Game Safaris
• Additional ammunition for extended safaris

Ammunition must be packed separately and transported in accordance with airline regulations.

RIFLE CASE REQUIREMENTS

Firearms must be transported:

• Unloaded
• In a lockable hard rifle case
• In compliance with airline requirements

Only the firearm owner should retain the keys or combination to the rifle case.

ARRIVAL IN SOUTH AFRICA

Upon arrival at South Africa's international airports, hunters must proceed to the SAPS Firearms Office where documentation and firearms will be inspected before the permit is issued.

To avoid delays, keep all firearm documentation in your carry-on luggage.

FIREARM PERMIT ASSISTANCE

For a faster and more convenient arrival experience, many international hunters make use of professional firearm permit assistance services.

Popular service providers include:

• PHASA SAPS520 Tool
• Hunters Support (Air 2000)
• Rifle Permits

These companies can assist with pre-approval, airport meet-and-greet services, permit processing, and firearm clearance.

HUNTERS USING RENTAL RIFLES

Clients who choose to use one of our rental rifles do not require firearm import permits.

Across Africa Tours & Safaris offers quality hunting rifles in the most popular African hunting calibres, all professionally maintained and sighted-in before your safari.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Firearm import regulations may change without notice and can vary depending on your nationality, airline, country of origin, and hunting destination.

While Across Africa Tours & Safaris will gladly assist with documentation and advice, the responsibility for obtaining the necessary permits and complying with all laws remains with the hunter.

NEED ASSISTANCE?

Our team will guide you through the firearm import process and provide all required invitation letters and safari documentation.

Please contact us well in advance of your safari to ensure everything is prepared before your arrival.

Where Legends Are Hunted and Memories Are Made.