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SARS Customs Guide

Complete Guide to DA65
Temporary Import/Export for Art Fairs

Everything galleries, artists, and dealers need to know about temporary export permits for international exhibitions and art fairs.

This DA65 customs permit guide is provided by JLog, a registered SARS customs clearing agent based in Cape Town. JLog handles DA65 temporary import and export permits for artwork travelling to and from exhibitions, art fairs, and galleries — including the Investec Cape Town Art Fair.

What is a DA65?

The DA65 is a SARS (South African Revenue Service) customs permit that allows the temporary export and re-import of goods without paying import duties. It is essential for galleries, artists, and dealers taking artworks to international exhibitions, art fairs, and trade shows.

Without a DA65, goods leaving South Africa are treated as a permanent export. When they return, you would be required to pay full import duty plus 15% VAT on the declared value — even though they were your goods all along.

When Do You Need a DA65?

A DA65 is required whenever you temporarily export goods from South Africa with the intention of bringing them back. Common scenarios include:

  • ✓ Art fairs — Cape Town Art Fair, Art Basel, Frieze London, Joburg Art Fair
  • ✓ Museum exhibitions and gallery loans
  • ✓ Trade shows and design expos
  • ✓ Film and photographic shoots abroad
  • ✓ Professional equipment taken abroad temporarily

Step-by-Step Process

1

Inventory & Valuation

4–6 weeks before departure

Create a detailed inventory of all items with descriptions, dimensions, medium, artist name, and declared value. Photograph each item showing its current condition — these photos are critical evidence for customs when the goods return.

2

Prepare DA65 Application

3–4 weeks before departure

Complete the DA65 form with all item details, including HS tariff codes (usually 9701.10 for paintings, 9703.00 for sculptures), purpose of export, and event details.

3

Submit to SARS

2–3 weeks before departure

Lodge the DA65 application through a registered customs broker. SARS will review the application and may require a customs bond for high-value consignments. The bond amount is typically a percentage of the total declared value.

4

Customs Inspection

1–2 weeks before departure

SARS may request to physically inspect the goods before departure. Ensure all items match the packing list exactly — any discrepancy can delay or jeopardise your permit.

5

Export with DA65

Day of departure

Present the approved DA65 at the port of exit (airport or harbour). The customs officer will verify items against the permit and stamp the export. Keep this stamped copy safe — you will need it on return.

6

Re-Import & Close

Upon return

When goods return to South Africa, present the stamped DA65 at the port of entry. Customs will verify all items are present and in the same condition. The permit is then closed — no duty or VAT is payable on returned items.

Common Pitfalls

Items not returned = duty payable

Any artwork sold at the fair or not returned must be declared. Full import duty plus 15% VAT becomes payable on the declared value. This is the single most costly mistake galleries make.

Incomplete documentation

Every item must have a detailed description that matches the actual goods. Vague descriptions like "artwork" or "painting" will be rejected. Include title, artist, medium, and dimensions.

Late application

SARS processing takes 2–3 weeks minimum. Rush applications risk rejection. Start the process at least 4 weeks before your departure date.

Condition discrepancies

If an item returns in a different condition, customs may dispute whether it is the same item. Photographic evidence at both export and import is critical — take detailed photos before packing.

Expired permits

DA65 permits have a validity period. If goods are not returned before the expiry date, they are treated as permanent exports and full duty becomes payable on re-import. Track your deadlines carefully.

Document Checklist

Completed DA65 application form
Detailed packing list with item descriptions, dimensions, and values
Condition report photographs of each item
Proof of ownership or consignment agreement
Insurance certificate covering transit and exhibition period
Event invitation or participation confirmation letter
Commercial invoice (for customs valuation purposes)
Valid customs bond (if required for high-value consignments)

Recommended Timeline

6 weeks before
Start inventory, photography, and condition reporting
4 weeks before
Prepare DA65 application and detailed packing list
3 weeks before
Submit DA65 application to SARS via customs broker
2 weeks before
Follow up on SARS approval, arrange customs bond if needed
1 week before
Final customs inspection if required, crating and packing
Day of departure
Export clearance at port with stamped DA65
Upon return
Re-import clearance, item verification, and DA65 closure

Art Fairs We Support

Let JLog Handle Your Art Fair Logistics

From DA65 applications to crating, shipping, and re-import — we manage the entire process so you can focus on the art.

Get a Free Quote Call +27 21 300 6099

Based in Cape Town, serving galleries and artists across South Africa and internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a DA65 permit in South Africa?

A DA65 is a SARS customs permit that allows goods to be temporarily exported from or imported into South Africa without paying duties and VAT. It is commonly used for artwork travelling to international exhibitions, art fairs, and trade shows, with the condition that the goods return within a specified timeframe.

When do you need a DA65 for artwork?

You need a DA65 whenever artwork leaves South Africa temporarily for an exhibition, art fair, gallery showing, or conservation work abroad — and will return. Without a DA65, you would need to pay export duties on departure and import duties plus 15% VAT when the artwork comes back.

How long does a DA65 temporary export permit last?

A standard DA65 permit is valid for 12 months from the date of export. If the goods cannot be returned within that period, you can apply for an extension through SARS before the permit expires. Extensions are generally granted if applied for in advance with supporting documentation.

What happens if goods on a DA65 are not re-imported in time?

If goods are not returned to South Africa before the DA65 expires and no extension has been granted, SARS may treat the temporary export as a permanent export. This can result in penalties and complications if the goods are later brought back, as they would be treated as a new import subject to full duties and VAT.

Can JLog handle DA65 permit applications?

Yes. JLog is a registered SARS customs clearing agent and handles DA65 applications in-house. JLog prepares the customs documentation, submits the permit application to SARS, coordinates the physical inspection if required, and manages the re-importation paperwork when goods return to South Africa.