Common PSIRA Registration Rejection Reasons (And How to Avoid Them)

Receiving a rejection letter from PSIRA can be frustrating, especially after paying non-refundable fees. To ensure your application is approved on the first try, avoid these common errors.

1. Criminal Record of Directors

Reason: PSIRA has a strict mandate to ensure the industry is free of criminal elements. Any director with a conviction for a scheduled offense (theft, fraud, assault, etc.) typically within the last 10 years will cause an automatic rejection. Solution: Do a preliminary criminal check on all directors before applying. If a record exists, consult a legal expert regarding expungement or eligibility.

2. Shared Office Space

Reason: You cannot register a security business at a residential address or a shared office space unless it is a demarcated, lockable office with its own access. PSIRA requires secure storage for files and equipment. Solution: Ensure you have a lease for a commercial office or a dedicated, compliant space that meets specific infrastructure requirements.

3. Tax Non-Compliance

Reason: Submitting an expired or invalid SARS Tax Clearance PIN. Solution: Ensure your tax affairs are 100% up to date on SARS eFiling before you even download the PSIRA forms.

4. Incomplete Application Forms

Reason: Leaving sections blank or failing to sign/witness declarations. Solution: Triple-check every page. If a section doesn't apply, write "N/A" rather than leaving it blank. Ensure commissioners of oaths sign where required.

5. Lack of Infrastructure

Reason: During the site inspection, the inspector finds you lack a phone, fax/email capability, or safe storage. Solution: meaningful "infrastructure" implies the ability to run a business. Have a desk, a computer, a phone, and a lockable filing cabinet.

Conclusion

PSIRA's job is to regulate the industry. They are not looking for reasons to reject you, but they must follow the law. Attention to detail is your best friend in this process.