Customs Compliance Practitioner (CCP)
Customs Compliance Practitioner designation recognises professionals responsible for the
procedural and operational aspects of imports and exports, ensuring that trade activities comply with
national customs legislation and international trade standards.
Customs Compliance Practitioners typically engage in:
- Preparing documentation for release and clearance on behalf of traders
- Submitting declarations and information to Customs and other regulatory bodies
- Managing the payment of duties and taxes, and handling refunds and adjustments
- Overseeing the entry and accounting of goods
- Liaising with other government agencies to secure permits, licences, and approvals
- Supporting post-clearance audits and assisting in dispute resolutions
- Offering general regulatory guidance and support in operational planning for trade compliance

AWARDING CRITERIA
To be awarded the Customs Compliance Practitioner designation, applicants must meet the following two core requirements:
1. Academic Component
Applicants must have successfully completed a National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5 qualification recognised by the Department of Higher Education and Training in South Africa.
In addition to the formal qualification, candidates must pass an entry assessment that demonstrates their practical competency and applied skills in Customs compliance.
2. Experiential Learning / Work Experience
Applicants must have engaged in customs-related work as their primary or sole activity for at least five (5) consecutive years within the past seven (7) years.
To verify this requirement, applicants must submit:
- A detailed resume of customs work experience
- Third-party validation from a senior customs professional or employer confirming the scope and duration of the experience
3. Competency Assessment
To demonstrate competence, applicants must submit the following:
- Verified proof of work experience
- Proof of an accredited qualification, as listed above
- Proof of a clear tax record
- Proof of a clear criminal record
4. SARS Readiness Programme
In line with SARS-recognised criteria for Recognised Controlling Bodies (RCBs) and registered tax practitioners, all applicants must complete the SARS Readiness Programme before registering as a tax practitioner.
RETAINING THE DESIGNATION
To maintain the designation, members must meet the following requirements annually:
1. Code of Conduct
Members must adhere to the SAIT Professional Code of Conduct and Ethics.
2. Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
Members must complete a total of 30 hours of CPD annually, in line with SARS and SAIT requirements:
- 18 verifiable hours, consisting of:
- 10 hours: Tax-related CPD
- 6 hours: Profession-related CPD
- 2 hours: Ethics CPD
- 12 non-verifiable hours of relevant learning
3. Annual Fees
All members must ensure that their annual membership fees are paid.
DESCRIPTION | FEE AMOUNT | NOTE |
---|---|---|
Registration Fee | R800.00 | Once-off fee to process your application |
Annual Membership Fee | R5 272.80 | Payable within 30 days of approval |
Monthly Option | 1st, 15th, or 25th of each month | Debit order option available |