How do I register a private security company in South Africa? Follow these steps:
- Private security operators have to apply for registration through the director of PSIRA. You can download PSIRA registration forms from the website, print and fill offline. Alternatively, you can fill the PSIRA form online.
- The duly filled forms should be accompanied by the necessary supporting documents depending on the nature of the business. You can use the application checklist (comes with the registration forms) to guide you. Below are some of the PSIRA registration requirements.
Table of Contents
I. Entity documentation required for registration:
- Trust – Trust Documents – Master of the High Court or
- Partnership – Partnership Agreement (An Attorney must draft this)
- New Business registration documents as per CIPC
II. Individual documentation required from each director, member, trustee, partner
- A person needs to be registered as a security service provider and possess accredited training i.e. Grade E up to B.
- Certified copy of PSIRA certificate
- Certified copy of ID (Identification Card)
- Comprehensive curriculum vitae
- Suretyship Form (SIRA 4) should be signed and initialled on each page by three signatories. Note that black ink is required.
III. Business documentation required
Where applicable, present
- VAT registration number
- PAYE number
- Unemployment Insurance Fund – applicable only if already registered with the Labour Department
- C.O.I.D / Compensation Fund) – applicable only if already registered with the Labour Department
- Tax Clearance Certificate applied through the South African Revenue Service is mandatory
- Lease agreement or proof of ownership
- Evidence of telephonic communication utilized – Mobile or landline communication (Statement i.n.o business/owner). If proof of landline is not in the applicant’s/ business name, one can alternatively present an explanatory letter.
IV. The business plan for one year
You are required to submit a one-year business plan.
V. A resolution
The resolution should indicate that the applicant will be able to operate for the next year.
VI. Specimen resolution to be submitted on Business Letterhead
This should be attached to SIRA 2.
VII. Self-assessment infrastructure and capacity report (SIRA 24a)
Note that after completing the registration process, an inspection will be done on the business to determine its infrastructure and capacity standards. If the business does not meet the standards required, PSIRA may withdraw the business registration.
PSIRA registration fee 2024
As part of the process, you have to pay a mandatory PSIRA registration fee of R6,750 for businesses and R230 for individuals. The payment is through a cheque, and a copy of proof is to be attached to the application. Payments should be made out to:
1. For businesses/firms:
Private Security Industry Authority
Bank: Nedbank, Arcadia
Account Number: 16333 66200
Branch Code: 163345
Ref no: Director’s ID no. (Only)
2. For individuals:
Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority
Bank: Nedbank, Arcadia
Account Number: 1633366200
Branch Code: 163345
Ref no: your ID number
The PSIRA registration fee 2024 is only for registration. Once the business is registered, the business will still pay for the pro-rata portion of annual fees for the remainder of the financial year. Annual fees are payable where your company is in operation or not. You can check more information on yearly fees on the official PSIRA website.
Once you have completed all the above processes, you can either download, sign and email or fax the forms back to PSIRA. Alternatively, you can drop the forms at the PSIRA branch near you. There is a list of branches and contact details online under PSIRA contacts.
PSIRA registration inquiry s/o
What is Psira registration? If you want to know more about this body, you can find out more on PSIRA registration enquiry s/o which is available through the official website. You can verify whether a business is compliant before seeking its services. For business PSIRA registration check, go to the site and verify.
On the other hand, individual PSIRA registration status check can be done on the verification option available on the website. All the necessary information on registration documents can be found here.
Psira registration contact details
- Website: psira.co.za
- Number: 086 133 3855
- Email: info@psira.co.za
With the unemployment rates in South Africa, setting up private security might be a way of tacking this issue. Private security provides an opportunity for individuals to be creative. Just remember to do your research and understand the PSIRA registration requirements before deciding if private security is your space.
DISCLAIMER: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on to make decisions of any kind. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility!
Note that the PSIRA website also provides a list of its inspectors. The list allows you to do a check of the inspector that comes to inspect your business.
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.