How to Get a SARS Tax Clearance Certificate Fast
Need a Tax Clearance Certificate urgently? Whether it’s for a tender application, foreign investment, or simply proving your good standing with SARS, having a valid Tax Clearance Certificate (TCC) can make or break important deals. The good news is: you can secure it quickly — if you’re properly prepared.
In this guide, we break down what a TCC is, when you need it, how to get one fast, and common mistakes that can delay your approval.
What Is a Tax Clearance Certificate?
A Tax Clearance Certificate is an official document issued by SARS confirming that your tax affairs are in order at the time of application.
Today, SARS has moved away from paper certificates and uses a digital Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN system.
Instead of printing certificates, you now apply for a TCS PIN that third parties — like tender boards, financial institutions, or exchange control officers — can verify instantly online.
When Do You Need a Tax Clearance Certificate?
You may need a TCS PIN or certificate in several key situations:
- Good Standing:
To prove your tax affairs are up to date for banks, grant providers, or business partners. - Tender Applications:
Government and corporate tenders usually require a valid tax compliance certificate. - Foreign Investment Allowance (FIA):
If you wish to invest funds overseas, SARS requires a TCS for the FIA process. - Emigration or Ceasing Tax Residency:
When formally emigrating, a TCS is needed to complete your tax exit.
✅ Example:
Sipho is bidding for a government tender and needs a TCS for the application. His accountant, having pre-checked compliance, applies online — and Sipho’s TCS PIN is issued within 48 hours.
How to Apply for a TCS Online
Follow these steps to apply for a Tax Clearance Certificate quickly through SARS eFiling:
Step 1: Log Into SARS eFiling
Access your SARS profile. Ensure your eFiling setup has access rights to “Tax Compliance Status.”
Step 2: Navigate to “Tax Status” → “Tax Compliance Status Request”
Choose the correct purpose:
- Good Standing
- Tender
- Foreign Investment Allowance
- Emigration
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Fill in your tax reference numbers, contact details, and reason for the request. You can add an optional note if urgent.
Step 4: Submit and Monitor
If your compliance is perfect, SARS typically issues a TCS PIN within 1–3 business days. For Good Standing and Tender, the TCS PIN is valid for 12 months.
What Does SARS Check Before Issuing a TCS PIN?
SARS will verify that:
- All registered tax types (Income Tax, VAT, PAYE, SDL) are active and compliant.
- All returns are submitted (even zero returns must be filed).
- There are no outstanding debts (unless there’s an active payment arrangement).
Common Reasons for TCS Delays or Rejections
⚠️ Outstanding Returns:
Even one missing VAT, PAYE, or Income Tax return can block approval.
⚠️ Dormant Tax Types:
Old VAT or PAYE accounts still open but not active can trigger non-compliance.
⚠️ Outstanding Tax Debt:
SARS will not approve a TCS if you owe taxes, unless you have an official payment arrangement.
⚠️ Incorrect eFiling Profiles:
Multiple or improperly linked profiles between your accountant and your eFiling account can cause submission errors.
Tips to Get a Tax Clearance Certificate Fast
✅ Submit All Returns First:
Ensure your tax filings — even nil returns — are 100% up to date.
✅ Pay Outstanding Balances:
Clear any SARS balances before applying or secure a signed payment plan.
✅ Use a Tax Practitioner:
An expert can pre-screen your compliance and fix issues before submitting.
✅ Select the Correct Purpose:
Choosing the wrong application type (e.g., Tender vs. Good Standing) can cause delays.
✅ Track Your Application:
Monitor your eFiling portal — statuses move through “Submitted,” “Under Review,” “Approved,” or “Rejected.”
How to Share Your TCS PIN
Once approved, simply share your TCS PIN and tax reference number with the third party requesting verification.
They can check your tax status instantly through the SARS eFiling platform — no paperwork or physical certificate required.
Need Help Getting a Tax Clearance Certificate Fast?
Applying for a Tax Clearance Certificate isn’t just about filling in a form — it’s about ensuring full tax compliance across all fronts.
At Sparrows Chartered Accountants, we help individuals and businesses:
- Pre-check SARS compliance
- Submit complete, accurate TCS applications
- Resolve outstanding issues quickly
- Secure urgent TCS approvals without unnecessary delays
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and reflects the legislation and SARS practices in effect at the time of publishing. Tax laws are subject to change, and individual circumstances vary. Always consult a registered tax practitioner or financial advisor for advice tailored to your situation.
