Botswana Unified Revenue Service
About Botswana Unified Revenue Service
The Botswana Unified Revenue Service (BURS) is the tax authority in Botswana responsible for collecting taxes and ensuring compliance with tax laws and regulations in the country. BURS plays a crucial role in generating revenue for the government and funding public services.
Services offered by BURS include:
- Income tax assessment and collection
- VAT registration and compliance
- Customs and excise duties collection
- Property tax assessment
- Taxpayer education and assistance
Role of BURS in Botswana
BURS plays a vital role in promoting compliance with tax laws, reducing tax evasion, and ensuring a fair and efficient tax system in Botswana. By collecting taxes effectively, BURS helps fund essential public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
Key functions of BURS include:
- Enforcing tax laws and regulations
- Conducting audits and investigations
- Issuing tax assessments and collecting tax payments
- Providing taxpayer support and assistance
FAQs about BURS
1. How can I register as a taxpayer with BURS?
To register as a taxpayer with BURS, you can visit the official BURS website for registration forms and guidelines.
2. What are the tax rates in Botswana?
For information on tax rates in Botswana, you can refer to the tax rates page on the BURS website.
3. How can I pay my taxes online?
Visit the BURS Online Tax Payment portal on their official website to make online tax payments.
4. What documents do I need for tax clearance?
For tax clearance, you may need to provide documents such as income statements, business registration details, and tax returns. Refer to the tax clearance page on the BURS website for more information.
5. How can I request a tax refund?
To request a tax refund, you can submit a refund claim through the BURS online portal or visit a BURS office for assistance.
6. What is the deadline for filing tax returns in Botswana?
The deadline for filing tax returns in Botswana is usually in June of each year. Ensure to check the specific deadlines on the tax deadlines page on the BURS website.
7. How can I contact BURS for assistance?
You can contact BURS through their official contact page for inquiries, assistance, or feedback.
8. What are the consequences of tax evasion in Botswana?
Tax evasion in Botswana is a serious offense that can result in penalties, fines, and legal action. It is important to comply with tax laws to avoid such consequences.
9. How does BURS promote taxpayer education?
BURS conducts taxpayer education programs, workshops, and outreach activities to inform the public about tax laws, obligations, and benefits of compliance.
10. Can I appeal a tax assessment by BURS?
If you disagree with a tax assessment by BURS, you have the right to appeal the decision through the formal appeals process outlined on the appeals page on their website.
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Sponsored Guide
Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)
If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.
📌 What is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.
NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:
- Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
- Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.
✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?
To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
- Have a valid South African ID.
- Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
- Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).
📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS
NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.
If you’re studying:
- Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
- Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.
📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application
When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:
- Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
- Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
- Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
- Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
- Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).
🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online
Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)
-
Visit the NSFAS Website
Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za
-
Create an Account
- Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
- You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
- Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
-
Login and Start the Application
- After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
-
Fill in Your Personal Details
- Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
- Provide household income information and living arrangements.
-
Upload Required Documents
- Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
- Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
-
Submit Your Application
- Review your application for accuracy.
- Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
-
Track Your Application
- Log in regularly to check your application status.
- You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.
🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)
- Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
- Disbursement: After registration and approval
Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.
💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?
NSFAS funding typically includes:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation (if living away from home)
- Meals and transport
- Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)
For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).
🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment
Repayments are:
- Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
- Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
- Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.
You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.
🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application
If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:
- Log into your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
- If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
- Upload any missing or corrected documents.
- Provide a clear explanation or motivation.
📱 NSFAS Contact Information
- Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327 (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM)
- Twitter: @myNSFAS
- Facebook: NSFAS
📝 Final Tips Before Applying
- Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
- Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
- Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
- Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.
By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.