Tax Clearance Certificate South Africa: How to Apply Fast
In today’s competitive business landscape, a Tax Clearance Certificate in South Africa isn’t just a formality — it’s a strategic asset. Whether you’re bidding for a tender, applying for funding, or transferring money abroad, SARS compliance is non-negotiable.
Since 2016, the paper-based certificate has been replaced by a digital Tax Compliance Status (TCS) PIN system. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to apply for your TCS PIN, when you need it, what SARS checks, and how to avoid common delays.
✅ What Is a Tax Clearance Certificate?
A Tax Clearance Certificate (now officially a Tax Compliance Status PIN) is a confirmation from SARS that your business is fully compliant with all tax obligations at the time of application. It applies to all registered tax types under your business, including:
- Income Tax
- PAYE/UIF/SDL
- VAT
- Provisional Tax (if applicable)
Instead of issuing a printed certificate, SARS now provides a TCS PIN, which third parties can use to verify your compliance status online — securely and in real-time.
📌 When Do You Need a TCS PIN?
A valid Tax Clearance Certificate in South Africa is often required in the following situations:
1. Tender Applications
Government and public sector tenders require a TCS PIN to prove your tax compliance before awarding contracts.
2. Good Standing Confirmation
Used to demonstrate general compliance when requested by business partners, funders, or regulators.
3. Foreign Investment Allowance (FIA)
Required for moving funds or making offshore investments, especially if the amount exceeds R1 million.
4. Emigration or Ceasing Tax Residency
Used to finalise your tax affairs and secure approval for international relocation or retirement abroad.
🔍 Example:
ABC Construction (Pty) Ltd is applying for a SANRAL tender. Without a valid TCS PIN, their application will be automatically rejected, regardless of their qualifications.
✅ What SARS Checks Before Approving Your Application
Before issuing a TCS PIN, SARS will verify that:
- All tax types (Income Tax, VAT, PAYE) are active and correctly registered
- All returns are up to date — including VAT201, EMP201, and ITR12/ITR14
- No outstanding debts exist, unless covered by an approved payment plan
- Your banking details and contact information are verified
If any item is flagged, the application will be rejected until it’s corrected.
📝 How to Apply for a TCS PIN on eFiling (Step-by-Step)
Here’s how to apply for your Tax Clearance Certificate in South Africa via SARS eFiling:
Step 1: Log in to eFiling
Use your business profile, not your personal account. Ensure your user roles include “Tax Compliance Status.”
Step 2: Navigate to “Tax Status” > “Tax Compliance Status Request”
Select the purpose of your application:
- Tender
- Good Standing
- Foreign Investment Allowance
- Emigration
🛑 Tip: Choose the correct type — selecting the wrong one may delay processing or render the TCS invalid for its intended use.
Step 3: Complete the TCS Application Form
Include the following:
- Company name and trading name
- Tax reference numbers (Income Tax, VAT, PAYE)
- Contact details for the company and public officer
- Reason for application or tender reference number
Review the details and submit.
Step 4: Wait for SARS Review
SARS typically takes 1–5 working days to process your application, depending on:
- Accuracy of your information
- Whether your tax profile is compliant
- If manual intervention is required
You can track your application status under “Tax Status” in your eFiling profile.
Step 5: Share Your TCS PIN
Once approved, SARS issues a TCS PIN valid for 12 months (Tender and Good Standing). You can:
- View it under the Tax Status tab
- Email it to the requesting party
- Provide it for online verification via SARS’s TCS Verification Tool
❌ Common Mistakes That Delay Your TCS Application
Avoid these frequent errors to speed up your Tax Clearance Certificate South Africa process:
🚫 Outstanding Returns
Missing a single VAT201 or EMP501 submission can block approval.
🚫 Unregistered or Dormant Tax Types
If PAYE or VAT is listed under your profile but never used, it may trigger a compliance flag. Close unused tax types.
🚫 Banking Not Verified
SARS may require recent bank verification before approving a TCS request.
🚫 Wrong TCS Purpose Selected
Selecting “Good Standing” when applying for a tender can invalidate the PIN for that specific purpose.
⚡ Pro Tips to Speed Up the Process
✅ Use a tax practitioner to pre-screen your compliance before applying
✅ Submit EMP201 and VAT201 on time, every month
✅ Close or deregister inactive tax types
✅ Avoid last-minute applications when applying for tenders — SARS may need a few days
👨💼 Why Work With a Tax Professional?
Applying for a Tax Clearance Certificate in South Africa may seem simple — but even minor oversights can cause delays or rejections. A registered tax practitioner can:
- Check your SARS compliance status in advance
- Identify and resolve red flags (e.g., dormant accounts, outstanding returns)
- Apply on your behalf and handle all follow-ups with SARS
- Save you time and help you meet tight tender deadlines
✅ Sparrows Chartered Accountants – Fast, Compliant TCS Applications
At Sparrows Chartered Accountants, we help South African businesses get their Tax Clearance Certificates issued fast and accurately. Our services include:
- Full compliance health checks
- VAT, PAYE, and Income Tax registration
- Resolution of debt and dormant returns
- TCS PIN application and status tracking
Let us streamline the process while you focus on growing your business.
Need a Tax Clearance Certificate for a tender or investment?
Contact Sparrows Chartered Accountants today — and get your TCS PIN issued without 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.
