- A duly completed application form (form MVR1A or RLV).
- Your RSA identity document (if you are a local resident) or an identity document issued by a foreign country (if you are a person not permanently resident in the Republic) or a traffic register number certificate.
- A certificate of incorporation or name change as issued in terms of the Companies Act if the vehicle is to be registered to a company.
- A founding statement or a certificate of name change issued in terms of the Close Corporations Act if the vehicle is to be registered to a close corporation. Written proof of compliance with the provisions of customs and excise legislation.
- If such motor vehicle is registered outside the Republic, the documents relating to the registration and licensing of the motor vehicle concerned as issued in the country where such motor vehicle is registered.
- A South African Police Service clearance of the motor vehicle.
- A letter of authority (LOA) as issued by the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS).
- Please note the following:
- The Custom and Excise Division of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) will provide the required proof of compliance with their regulations and procedures. You are advised to contact the SARS for further information.
- A South African Police Service clearance will only be issued after your registering authority has issued you with a referral. After the referral has been issued the registration certificate of the vehicle has to be presented to the SAPS in order for the process to be initiated.
- The registering authority will perform an assessment on you application and you will pay the fees as prescribed by your province
Table of Contents
Register an imported vehicle
If you want to register an imported vehicle in South Africa, you must do so at your relevant registering authority.
The following documents are required:
- eNaTIS form (MVR1A or RLV);
- RSA identity document;
- If you do not have an RSA identity document:
- Identity document issued by a foreign country or
- Traffic register number certificate
- Documents relating to the registration and licensing of the motor vehicle outside the RSA.
- Letter of authority (LOA)(link is external) from the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications
If you want to register the vehicle in a company name, you must have:
- A certificate of incorporation as issued in terms of the Companies Act or;
- A certificate of name change as issued in terms of the Companies Act.
- If you want to register the vehicle in the name of a closed corporation, you must have:
- A founding statement issued in terms of the Close Corporations Act or;
- A certificate of name change issued in terms of the Close Corporations Act.
Before the vehicle can be registered, you must get a South African Police Service (SAPS) clearance certificate. This is only issued after the registering authority has issued you with a referral and registration certificate.
The Customs and Excise Division of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) will provide the required proof of compliance with their regulations and procedures. You are advised to contact SARS for further information.
Find out more on the eNaTIS(link is external) website.
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.