Temporary & Transit Permit / non-SARS document

ATA Carnet CARNET

An international 'customs passport' that lets goods enter a country temporarily with no duty or VAT — ideal for exhibitions, samples and professional equipment.

Last updated: 24 May 2026

Not a SARS form The ATA Carnet is issued by a body other than SARS. See the Where to submit row below for the issuing body. SARS checks for it at clearance but does not issue it.
Quick answer

CARNET — An international 'customs passport' that lets goods enter a country temporarily with no duty or VAT — ideal for exhibitions, samples and professional equipment.

Issued by SACCI (South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry)

This is not a SARS form — apply directly with the issuing body. SARS checks for the permit at clearance but does not issue it.

Open the official issuer site ↗

Key facts

When you need itYou bring artwork, samples or gear into SA (or take SA goods abroad) for a fair and re-export unchanged.
Where to submitIssued in the goods' home country by its Chamber of Commerce (in SA: SACCI). Presented at every entry and exit.
Does customs stamp it?STAMP REQUIREDYes — stamped by Customs on every crossing, in and out. An unstamped leg breaks the chain and triggers duty.
Commonly confused withNot a SARS form — an international document SARS recognises. The art-fair workhorse.

Frequently asked questions

Is the ATA Carnet a SARS form?

No. The ATA Carnet is not issued by SARS — it is a permit / certificate from another body. An international 'customs passport' that lets goods enter a country temporarily with no duty or VAT — ideal for exhibitions, samples and professional equipment. See "Where to submit" below for the issuing body.

When and where do I lodge the CARNET?

You bring artwork, samples or gear into SA (or take SA goods abroad) for a fair and re-export unchanged. Issued in the goods' home country by its Chamber of Commerce (in SA: SACCI). Presented at every entry and exit.

Does customs stamp the CARNET?

Yes — stamped by Customs on every crossing, in and out. An unstamped leg breaks the chain and triggers duty.

Related forms

SAD502Temporary Import / Transit Declaration The declaration for goods entering temporarily, or moving through SA in transit to another country, under customs contro… DA65Registration of Goods for Re-importation Registers commercial goods you're sending OUT of SA temporarily, so you can prove they're the same goods on the way back… TC01Traveller Card The declaration you complete as a traveller entering or leaving SA, listing goods you're carrying that may attract duty …

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This page is a plain-English guide, not legal or customs advice. Form names and procedures are verified against the official SARS "Find a Form" index at the time of publication, but requirements change — always confirm on sars.gov.za or with a registered customs broker before lodging. The ATA Carnet is NOT a SARS form — it is issued by a body other than SARS.