Official SARS customs exchange rates used for calculating import duty and VAT on goods entering South Africa. Updated weekly from the SA Reserve Bank.
About SARS customs exchange rates: These are the official exchange rates sourced from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). They are used to convert foreign currency invoices to ZAR for customs duty and VAT calculation. They may differ from commercial bank rates. The rate applicable to your import is the one in effect on the date of customs entry, not the date of purchase or shipment.
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💵 All Currency Rates
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📈 30-Day Rate History
Weekly SARS customs exchange rates for the past 30 days
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Rate (ZAR)
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❔ Frequently Asked Questions
Where do SARS customs exchange rates come from?
SARS customs exchange rates are sourced from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). They are the official rates used by SARS for calculating customs duty and VAT on imported goods. These rates may differ from commercial bank exchange rates, which include additional margins and fees. The SARB publishes these rates specifically for customs and excise purposes.
How often are SARS exchange rates updated?
SARS exchange rates are typically updated weekly, usually on a Wednesday, and apply from the following Friday. The rates remain in effect for one week until the next update. JLog checks for new rates daily at 07:00 SAST to ensure our data is always current. Public holidays may occasionally affect the update schedule.
Which exchange rate does SARS use for my import?
SARS uses the official customs exchange rate that was in effect on the date your goods were entered for customs clearance — the date on your customs declaration (SAD500). This is not the rate on the date of purchase, invoice, or shipment. Your customs broker will apply the correct rate when processing your clearance.
Can I use my bank's exchange rate for customs?
No. For customs duty and VAT purposes, you must use the official SARS customs exchange rate, not your bank's commercial rate. The SARS rate is published by the South African Reserve Bank and may be higher or lower than commercial rates. Using any other rate on your customs declaration may result in penalties or delays.
Calculate your total import cost
Use our free calculator with live SARS exchange rates to estimate duty, VAT, and total landed cost.