> ## Knowledge Base Index
> Fetch the complete knowledge base index at: https://help.tunl.to/sitemap.xml
> Use this file to discover available pages before exploring further.
> Pure-Markdown content can be obtained by appending a '.md' suffix to the content URLs listed in the sitemap (without the trailing slash).

# How to Register for Trade Agreements on SARS eFiling

### How to Register for Trade Agreements on SARS eFiling

**Before you start**
You'll need:
* An active SARS eFiling account with your business registered as a taxpayer
* An active Exporter's Code (if you don't have one yet, [get one first →](https://help.tunl.to/en/article/why-getting-an-exporter-code-is-a-game-changer-for-south-african-smes-g9xog2/))
* A proof of address for your business (already on file in eFiling for most businesses)
* Your goods must be manufactured or substantially produced in South Africa to qualify

**Step 1 — Log in and switch to your business profile**
1. Go to [sarsefiling.co.za](https://sarsefiling.co.za/) and log in
2. At the top of the screen, find the **Portfolio** dropdown and select your **business name** (not your personal name)
3. In the **Taxpayer** dropdown next to it, also select your **business name**
4. You should now see **Customs** appear in the top navigation bar — if you don't, you're still on your personal profile

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/e/a/5/b/ea5b318969f4c800/2_1rb2rzx.png)

**Step 2 — Open Customs Registration**
1. Click **Customs** in the top navigation
2. In the left sidebar, click **Registration Licensing Accreditation**

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/e/a/5/b/ea5b318969f4c800/3_1thgmnl.png)

**Step 3 — Select your customs code**
1. You'll see a table with your **Customs Reference Number** and its status
2. Confirm the status shows as **ACTIVE** — if it doesn't, your exporter's code needs to be resolved before continuing
3. Select the radio button next to your customs code and click **Continue**

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/e/a/5/b/ea5b318969f4c800/4_1qcjfnr.png)


**Step 4 — Start a new application**
1. You're now in the RLA dashboard.
2. Click the **RLA ▼** dropdown in the top left corner
3. Under **Registrations**, click **New Application**

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/e/a/5/b/ea5b318969f4c800/5_rk14os.png)


**Step 5 — Select the registration type**
1. You'll see a list of categories. Click **Registration** to expand it
2. Click **Exporters for preferential tariff treatment** to expand it further
3. Click **Exporter for SADC-EPA (local)** — this is the EU trade agreement registration
> **Also registering for UK shipments?** Once you've completed the EU application, repeat Steps 4–5 and select **Exporter for SACUM-UK-EPA (local)** instead.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/e/a/5/b/ea5b318969f4c800/7_1x4994c.png)


**Step 6 — Contact details (optional)**
1. This step is optional — you can skip it or add a contact person for the application

**Step 7 — Physical address**
1. Your registered business address will be pre-populated
2. At the bottom of the page, answer **Yes** to: *"Will all the Customs/Excise transactional documents be stored at this location?"* — this means your invoices, packing lists, and customs paperwork are kept at your business address
3. If your records are stored elsewhere (e.g. at your accountant's office), select No and add that address instead

**Step 8 — Disclosure Customs**
1. This is a compliance declaration. You'll be asked whether you, or any manager/director/trustee of the business, have:
   * Contravened customs laws
   * Been convicted of an offence
   * Been convicted of fraud or dishonesty
   * Been declared insolvent or in liquidation
   * Have outstanding amounts due to SARS
2. Select **No** for all questions (if any answer is Yes, you'll need to resolve that with SARS before applying)

**Step 9 — Upload supporting documents and submit**
1. SARS will request a **Proof of Address** for your business — upload a recent municipal invoice or lease agreement if it's not already pre-populated
2. You can attach **Additional Documents** here if you want to support your origin claim (optional at this stage — SARS may request them later)
3. Tick the **Declaration** checkbox at the bottom: *"I declare that the particulars in the application and all annexures are true and correct"*
4. Click **Submit**
5. Processing can take up to 60 seconds — wait for the confirmation screen

**Step 10 — Confirmation**
1. You'll see: **"Application Submitted Successfully!"** with a reference number and case number — note these down
2. Your application status will show as **In Progress** on your RLA dashboard
3. You should also recieve an email confirming that the application is in process

**What happens next**
SARS will review your application under a **Documentary Inspection** process. This means they may contact you to provide documents proving your goods are of South African origin — for example, bills of materials or supplier invoices showing local inputs. Most straightforward manufacturers won't face any issues. SARS will notify you of the outcome by email.

Once approved, a new **Exporter for SADC-EPA (local)** entry will appear under your Registered Client Types — that's your confirmation. SARS will also email you confirmation that you are registered under the trade agreement. That will look like this.

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/-/e/a/5/b/ea5b318969f4c800/screenshot-2026-05-22-at-15534_n2w5is.png)

**Want someone to do this for you?**

Our partner [Import Export License](https://importexportlicense.co.za/) can handle the full registration on your behalf — covering the SADC-EU, UK-SACUM, and SACU-EFTA agreements in one go.

Have these documents ready before you start:
* Company registration certificate
* Bank account confirmation letter
* Proof of business address (latest municipal invoice or valid lease agreement)
* Latest phone or cell account invoice
* Completed information and resolution form (provided at checkout)

When you're ready to apply, go to:
1. https://importexportlicense.co.za/product/amend-existing-export-license/
2. Select **"Amend Existing Export License"**
3. Click **"Add Trade Agreement"** → **"Add – SADC-EU"** (and whichever additional agreements you wish to apply for)
4. Click **"Add to Cart"** → **"Checkout"**
5. Complete your details and place your order

They'll handle the rest.