Time is running out to join the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership – the application closes on 30 September 2026. This is a chance for 80 young South Africans to start a 12‑month career in a vital part of the country’s border and revenue system.
What is the SARS Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership Programme?
The programme is a 12‑month learning journey. Cadets work in real Customs environments – airports, harbours, land border posts and inland offices – while receiving structured training. You will support daily operations and learn how SARS manages the movement of goods and collects excise duties.
Who can apply?
To be considered you must meet every item below. Missing one requirement will disqualify you.
- South African citizen
- Age between 18 and 35 years
- National Qualification Framework (NQF) Level 4 qualification that includes Mathematics and/or Accounting
- At least one year of experience in administration, logistics, or customer service
- Valid Code B or EB driver’s licence
- Computer literate with good Microsoft Office skills
- Physically fit for work in operational settings
- Willingness to work shifts, weekends, public holidays and overtime
- Willingness to be posted anywhere in South Africa, including remote border posts
What will you gain?
The learnership gives you practical exposure that you cannot get in a typical office job. You will develop:
- Administrative and record‑keeping skills
- Knowledge of Customs systems and procedures
- Client‑service and communication abilities
- Data collection, analysis and reporting skills
- Understanding of governance, compliance and integrity standards
- Problem‑solving and operational discipline
- Experience working in airports, seaports and border posts
Where are the 80 positions located?
Cadets will be placed at the following sites (numbers show the vacancies per site):
- Johannesburg – Alberton: 1
- OR Tambo International Airport: 14
- Lanseria International Airport: 3
- Doringkloof Hub: 2
- Port Elizabeth: 1
- Durban Harbour: 10
- Durban Hub: 4
- Richards Bay Hub: 3
- King Shaka International Airport: 1
- Groblersbridge Border Post: 1
- Beitbridge Border Post: 1
- Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport: 1
- Oshoek Border Post: 1
- Lebombo Border Post: 16
- Kopfontein Border Post: 3
- Cape Town Harbour: 8
- Cape Town International Airport: 10
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Check that you meet every eligibility requirement listed above.
- Gather the following documents:
- Copy of your NQF Level 4 qualification (showing Maths/Accounting).
- Proof of South African citizenship (ID).
- Valid Code B or EB driver’s licence.
- Proof of one‑year relevant work experience (letter of service, reference letters).
- CV that highlights the required experience and skills.
- Visit the official SARS recruitment portal: Apply here (Requisition ID 11620).
- Create an account or log in.
- Complete the online application form. Upload all supporting documents.
- Answer any psychometric or case‑study questions that appear.
- Submit before the deadline – 30 September 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Show the Maths/Accounting results clearly. SARS will check that these subjects are on your qualification.
- Detail your one‑year experience with specific tasks (e.g., filing, data entry, customer enquiries, logistics support).
- Highlight any previous work that required shift work, weekend duties or travel between sites.
- Emphasise your driver’s licence and willingness to relocate.
- Proofread your CV and application for spelling or factual errors – integrity is crucial.
- Prepare for the security screening and possible background checks; have your references ready.
- If you have a disability, include a brief note that you are applying under SARS’s inclusive policy.
- Research basic Customs and Excise functions so you can answer interview questions confidently.
What to expect after you apply
If you are shortlisted, SARS will invite you to complete assessments such as psychometric tests, case studies and security screenings. Successful candidates will receive a formal offer, sign an oath of secrecy and start the 12‑month programme. The learnership does not guarantee permanent employment, but it provides valuable experience that can open doors in the public sector.
Final thoughts and next steps
The SARS Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership offers a rare entry point into a specialised, hands‑on environment. It is not a simple Grade 12 grant – you need the right subjects, work experience, a driver’s licence and the flexibility to work shifts nationwide. If you meet these criteria, apply before the 30 September 2026 deadline and take the first step toward a career in customs and excise.