Question 1

What is PSIRA and why is it required?

Accepted Answer

PSIRA is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the private security industry in South Africa. It ensures that companies and individuals in the industry comply with ethical, operational, and legal standards.
Registration is mandatory for any business offering guarding, protection, monitoring, response, or security advisory services. Operating without PSIRA approval is illegal and can result in fines and criminal charges.

Question 2

Who must register with PSIRA?

Accepted Answer

All companies and individuals providing private security services must be registered.

This includes:
 • Guarding companies
 • VIP protection companies
 • CCTV monitoring companies
 • Alarm response units
 • Bodyguards
 • Security training institutions
Even subcontractors must be registered.

Question 3

What documents are required for PSIRA registration?

Accepted Answer

You will need:
 • Company registration documents
 • Directors Certified ID copies
 • Director's CVs
 • Proof of Address / business premises
 • Criminal clearance for all directors
 • Tax clearance
 • Proof of landline
 • Design, sketch, photo of uniform and insignia/title/symbol the business will use (pants, shirts, t-shirts, jackets, reflectors, etc.)
 • Business Plan for 1 Year
 • PSIRA Specimen Resolution on business letterhead
 • Resolution Letter on a business letterhead stating that the business will be able to operate within the year of application
 • Detailed information on infrastructure (PSiRA 24a)
 • A Suretyship signed form in the prescribed formal (PSIRA 4) in respect of each director, member, partner, trustee, or administrator of a security business unless already registered as a security service provider.

PSIRA may request additional documents depending on your business model.

NOTE:
At least one director MUST be PSIRA Registered.

Question 4

Why must directors undergo criminal checks?

Accepted Answer

PSIRA prioritizes public safety and requires all controlling members of a security organization to be vetted for criminal offences.
Any serious offence can disqualify a director.
This ensures integrity and reduces risks within the security industry.

Question 5

Do security guards need to be graded?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Guards must be trained and qualified under PSIRA grading levels (Grade A, B, C, D, or E).
Companies must also employ staff appropriate to the services offered — e.g., VIP units require Grade A supervisors.

Question 6

Do I need a physical office to register with PSIRA?

Accepted Answer

Yes. PSIRA does not approve businesses using virtual offices or residential-only addresses.
A physical operational location is required for inspections and audits.

Question 7

Can foreign-owned companies register with PSIRA?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but at least one responsible individual must legally reside in South Africa.
Foreign directors must also undergo vetting and provide valid immigration documents.

Question 8

How long does PSIRA registration take?

Accepted Answer

The process can take 4–12 weeks, depending on document readiness, inspections, and background checks.

Question 9

Why do PSIRA applications get rejected?

Accepted Answer

Common reasons include:
 • Missing documents
 • Invalid criminal clearance
 • Unverified business address
 • Staff without valid PSIRA grades
 • Incomplete tax compliance

We ensure your application avoids all common rejection triggers.

Question 10

Does PSIRA conduct inspections?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Before issuing registration, PSIRA may inspect your business premises to assess operational readiness and verify compliance.

Question 11

What is the difference between company registration and individual registration?

Accepted Answer

Individuals register as security officers (Grade A–E).
Companies register to legally operate as security service providers.
Both registrations are required for a compliant company.

Question 12

Does PSIRA registration expire?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Companies must renew annually, ensuring compliance with regulations and fee requirements.

Question 13

What if my staff are not PSIRA registered?

Accepted Answer

You cannot employ unregistered security personnel.
Staff must be graded and registered before they can work legally.

Question 14

Can my company offer multiple security services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but PSIRA must approve each service category.
Training, guarding, investigations, VIP protection, etc., all have specific requirements.

Question 15

Can a director with a criminal record apply?

Accepted Answer

Minor offences may be allowed depending on type and date.
Serious or recent offences usually result in disqualification.

Question 16

Do I need COIDA before registering with PSIRA?

Accepted Answer

Yes. PSIRA requires proof of COIDA registration to ensure staff are protected against workplace injuries.

Question 17

What if a director resigns or changes?

Accepted Answer

You must notify PSIRA and submit a formal update.
Unreported changes can lead to suspension.

Question 18

Can PSIRA suspend a company?

Accepted Answer

Yes — for noncompliance, expired certificates, failing inspections, or hiring unregistered guards.

Question 19

Does PSIRA regulate training institutions?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Training centres must meet strict requirements to become accredited providers.

Question 20

What happens after PSIRA approval?

Accepted Answer

Your company receives a PSIRA registration certificate and number, allowing you to operate legally, apply for contracts, and employ registered guards.

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