The South African Revenue Service (SARS) is offering a valuable opportunity for young South Africans to gain practical experience through its Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership Programme for 2026/2027. This 12-month program is designed to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge in customs operations, preparing them for potential careers within SARS. If you have a Grade 12 certificate and meet specific requirements, this learnership could be your entry point into a dynamic field.
Understanding the SARS Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership
The primary goal of this learnership is to provide a structured learning environment where successful candidates can develop practical workplace skills. Over the 12-month period, participants will gain exposure to the day-to-day operations of SARS Customs & Excise. This hands-on experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of managing goods that enter and leave South Africa. The program aims to build a pipeline of skilled individuals for the critical functions of customs and excise.
Key Locations for Learnership Placements
SARS operates across various locations in South Africa, and learners may be placed in different customs operational areas. These can include major international airports like OR Tambo and King Shaka, busy harbours such as Durban and Cape Town, and numerous border posts like Beitbridge and Lebombo. Inland operational offices are also part of the placement possibilities. It is important for applicants to be aware that national deployment is a requirement, and willingness to work in potentially remote border post locations is essential.
Essential Minimum Requirements for Applicants
To be considered for the SARS Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership, candidates must meet a set of specific criteria. Firstly, applicants must be South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 35. A Grade 12 certificate (or NQF Level 4) is mandatory, with a specific requirement for either Mathematics or Accounting as a matric subject. A valid Code B/EB driver’s licence is also a non-negotiable requirement. Furthermore, candidates must demonstrate computer literacy, including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
Beyond these academic and licensing requirements, applicants need to be physically fit, as the operational environment can be demanding. They must also be willing to work shifts, including weekends and public holidays, and be prepared to work overtime when needed. A willingness to undergo security screening, criminal record checks, qualification verification, and integrity assessments is also part of the application process. The program also lists one year of experience in administration, logistics, or customer service as a requirement, so applicants should highlight any relevant past roles.
Grade 12 Subject Requirements
The educational prerequisite for this learnership is a Grade 12 certificate with a pass in either Mathematics or Accounting. This specific subject requirement is critical, as it indicates a foundational understanding of quantitative skills that are valuable in customs and excise work. Applicants should carefully review their Grade 12 results to ensure they meet this particular criterion before submitting their application.
Age and Driver’s Licence Criteria
The age range of 18 to 35 years is specifically targeted to attract young individuals into the program. This ensures that the learnership serves its purpose of developing the next generation of customs professionals. The requirement for a valid Code B/EB driver’s licence is also significant. This is because many customs operations, especially at border posts and ports, require staff to be mobile and able to travel to different sites.
Responsibilities of a SARS Customs Cadet
Successful candidates will be involved in a range of activities that cover process, client service, governance, and personal development. Process responsibilities may include using SARS systems for accurate information processing, assisting with administrative tasks, and resolving basic queries. Client service duties will involve understanding and meeting the expectations of stakeholders interacting with customs.
In terms of governance and compliance, cadets will be expected to adhere to SARS’s strict standards. This is reinforced by the thorough screening processes during recruitment. Learning and performance development is also a key component, with cadets encouraged to take ownership of their growth, seek feedback, and continuously improve their work.
Willingness to Work and Deploy Nationally
The operational nature of customs and excise means that successful cadets must be prepared for non-traditional working hours. This includes working shifts, weekends, and public holidays, as well as overtime when operational demands require it. Equally important is the willingness to be deployed nationally. This means candidates should be open to working in various locations across South Africa, from busy urban centers to more remote border posts.
Physical Fitness for Operational Roles
Customs operations are not always desk-bound. Especially at border posts, airports, and seaports, the work can involve physical activity and exposure to different environmental conditions. Therefore, SARS requires candidates to be physically fit and capable of working effectively in these operational settings. This learnership is an operational program, not simply an office-based internship.
The Importance of Experience
The requirement for one year of experience in administration, logistics, or customer service is designed to ensure that applicants have some prior exposure to a professional work environment. This experience helps candidates understand workplace expectations, develop basic professional skills, and better integrate into the learnership program. When applying, clearly detailing this experience, including where and when it was gained and the responsibilities held, is crucial.
How to Apply for the Learnership
Applications for the SARS Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership Programme 2026/2027 are submitted online through the SARS recruitment platform. It is essential to complete the application form accurately and ensure that all information provided aligns with supporting documents. Before submitting, double-check that your CV and application clearly demonstrate that you meet all the specified educational, age, driver’s licence, and experience requirements.
Application Closing Date
The deadline for applications is 30 September 2026. It is advisable for interested candidates to submit their applications well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute technical issues or processing delays.
Conclusion
The SARS Customs & Excise Cadet Learnership Programme offers a significant opportunity for young South Africans to gain valuable experience in a critical government service. By meeting the outlined requirements, including academic qualifications, age, driver’s licence, and a willingness to work in diverse operational environments, aspiring candidates can take a step towards a career in customs and excise. This program is a solid foundation for those looking to contribute to South Africa’s border management and revenue collection efforts.
