Flying with Firearms (incl. Temp Export/Import Permit)
Flying with Firearms Internationally
and applying for your SAPS520 Temporary Export/Import permit – see bottom of this page for the ADVICE SHEET on how to apply for this permit.
Flying with Firearms in South Africa
ALWAYS CHECK WITH THE AIRLINE BEFORE YOU BOOK YOUR TICKET
2nd June 2026 : SAFAIR Update
Please click HERE for the full information regarding flying with firearms with SAFAIR. It is VITAL you read this before you fly.
* You MUST give at least 72 hours notice to SAFAIR that you want to transport your firearm.
* This service is only available with STANDARD or PREMIUM fares.
* This service is NOT available at Bloemfontein, Hoedspruit or Lanseria airports.
* This service is now available for the GEORGE airport (as from 1st June 2026).
* You must CHECK-IN at least 2 hours prior to departure.
Please click HERE for the full information regarding flying with firearms with SAFAIR. It is VITAL you read this before you fly.
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It is always our recommendation that you check with the airline before you book your ticket to ensure that you are fully aware of their requirements for transporting firearms. Please make sure you check what they charge and whether it is for each leg of your journey. Please never assume anything.
Flying with Firearms Internationally – download this advice sheet BEFORE you apply for your permit
A number of airlines will transport firearms internationally. Please check with the airline before booking your air ticket.
* check the exact transport fee
* check the fee for a double case (the airline might charge you for each firearm)
* check the fee for each leg of your journey
* taking into account if you are staying over in a country that is not your final destination
You will need:-
- South African Temporary Import/Export permit (SAPS520) : apply for this at your local police station (allow AT LEAST 21 days to process) and then COURIER your application to the CFR.
- PLEASE DOWNLOAD this advice sheet and follow the advice PRECISELY to reduce the possibility of a refusal of your permit application.
PLUS:
United Kingdom : please apply via the CPSA UK web site here : https://www.cpsa.co.uk/vsp  allow at least 8 o 10 weeks for the processing of your application.
United States of America : Download the application form here : https://www.atf.gov/resource-center/docs/atf-f-5330-3apdf/download and email your completed form to imports@atf.gov – allow at least 8 to 10 weeks for processing. You will need a letter of invitation from the shooting club where you are participating.
Always check with your destination country on the applicable laws for temporarily importing firearms. It does vary from country to country.