The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is now accepting applications for its Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership Programme 2026/2027 – a chance to start a career in customs before the deadline passes.
What the learnership offers
This is a 12‑month, paid learning programme that gives you hands‑on experience in SARS Customs & Excise operations. You will work in real environments such as airports, seaports, border posts and inland offices while earning a salary and developing marketable skills.
Who can apply
To be eligible you must meet all of the following:
- South African citizen
- Age between 18 and 35 years
- Matric (Grade 12) or NQF Level 4 with a pass in Mathematics or Accounting
- Valid Code B/EB driver’s licence
- Computer literate and able to use Microsoft Office
- Physically fit for operational work
- Willing to work shifts, weekends, public holidays and overtime
- Willing to be deployed nationally, including remote border posts
- At least 1 year of experience in administration, logistics or customer‑service (include this on your CV)
- Ready to undergo security screening, criminal record checks, qualification verification and integrity assessments
Where you could be placed
Successful cadets may be posted to any of the following SARS Customs locations across South Africa:
- Johannesburg
- OR Tambo International Airport
- Lanseria International Airport
- Doringkloof Hub
- Port Elizabeth
- Durban Harbour
- Durban Hub
- Richards Bay Hub
- King Shaka International Airport
- Groblersbridge Border Post
- Beitbridge Border Post
- Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport
- Oshoek Border Post
- Lebombo Border Post
- Kopfontein Border Post
- Cape Town Harbour
- Cape Town International Airport
What you will learn
During the year you will rotate through key areas such as:
- Process and administrative work – using SARS systems, handling information requests and maintaining accurate records
- Client service – communicating with traders and other stakeholders
- Finance and governance – complying with policies, raising issues and supporting audits
- People development – receiving feedback, tracking your performance and seeking training when needed
The blend of on‑the‑job tasks and structured learning will give you a solid foundation for a future in customs, logistics or related public‑service roles.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Gather the documents you will need: ID, birth certificate, proof of Matric/Level 4 results, driver’s licence, CV and any certificates for your 1‑year experience.
- Visit the official SARS recruitment portal: Apply for the SARS Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership Programme 2026/2027.
- Create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Complete the online application form. Fill in every field accurately and match the information to your supporting documents.
- Upload your CV and any other required files.
- Review everything carefully before submitting.
Tips to improve your chances
- Highlight your Mathematics or Accounting results prominently on your CV.
- Describe your 1‑year experience with clear bullet points: where you worked, dates, main duties and how they relate to administration, logistics or customer service.
- Mention your driver’s licence and any previous experience working in shifts or remote locations.
- Proofread for spelling and grammar – simple errors can cost you points.
- Be honest about your background. Inaccurate information will be caught during security and integrity checks.
- Apply early. The portal often experiences high traffic close to the deadline.
Next steps
The application window closes on 30 September 2026. Do not wait until the last day – submit your application as soon as you have all the required documents.
Good luck, and remember that this learnership can be the first step toward a rewarding career in South Africa’s customs and excise sector.
