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Expense Reimbursement Policy in South Africa

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TABLE OF CONTENTS


This policy outlines the rules and documentation requirements for reimbursing business-related expenses incurred by employees working in or traveling to South Africa.



Invoice Requirements


To ensure tax compliance and eligibility for VAT reclaim:

  • Invoices must include:

    • Supplier name

    • Date

    • VAT number

    • Description of service

    • Amount

  • Invoices over R50: Must be valid SARS tax invoices.

  • Small cash items: If no receipt is available, a declaration form must be submitted.

  • Company Name: Large supplier invoices should list New Horizons Global Partners (Pty) Ltd.


Tax-Free Expenses

Expenses must be:

  • Actually incurred in the production of income

  • Properly documented

  • Examples: Travel, accommodation, business calls, client meals


Business Travel

  • Flights: Economy class for domestic/regional travel. Business class only with prior approval.

  • Accommodation: Mid-range (3–4 star) hotels unless client requirements dictate otherwise.

  • Meals: Internal caps apply per meal/day.


Per Diem Rates

SARS publishes daily subsistence allowance limits:

  • Local Travel:

    • R161/day (meals only)

    • R522/day (meals + incidentals)

  • International Travel:

    • Country-specific limits apply (see SARS tables)

    • Tax-free only if the employee sleeps away from home. Excess amounts are taxable.



Mileage Reimbursement

  • Rate: R4.64 per km (2025/26 SARS Reimbursive Travel Allowance)

  • Tax-Free Limit: Up to 8,000 km per year can be reimbursed tax-free.

  • Logbook Required:

    • Date of trip

    • Odometer readings (start and end)

    • Distance travelled

    • Business purpose and destination

  • Amounts above 8,000 km/year may be taxable unless reimbursed based on actual vehicle costs.

Parking, Tolls & Ride-Hailing

  • Parking/Toll Fees: Must be supported by receipts or e-tag statements.

  • Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Receipts or trip summaries accepted.

  • Note: Home-to-office commuting is not reimbursable.



Client Entertainment & Gifts

  • Must record:

    • Names of attendees

    • Company

    • Business purpose

  • Deductible for employer; not taxable to employee if reasonable.

Health & Wellness

  • Deductible: Only if required for business (e.g., mandatory medicals, vaccinations)

  • Not Deductible: Gym, yoga, or wellness programs are considered taxable fringe benefits if employer-paid.

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