So I am heading out on my first safari to South Africa in about a month. My two hunting partners and I went to the nearest customs office (about three hours away) and got our 4457 forms filled out. What I didn't realize until I was almost home was that the idiot officer who filled mine out left my buddies address on my form. I called the officer back and he said having the wrong address was not a big deal. I am using a firearm import service to fill out all my paperwork so they need the form ahead of time and I can't just get a new form from the airport on my departure date.

So my question is should I take the time to get this corrected or should I not worry about it? Thanks for the help.

Jon

I believe I would get it corrected if it were me, you have to put your address on the SAPS 520 forms and if the reviewing officer is paying attention, it might cause a problem. The "in about a month" would concern me more though...even FedEx takes several days to get a package to Joburg (with no delays) so you might be cutting it a bit close to have the permits processed that quickly.

Karl

jflem,

The Customs officer is not looking at the 4457 as it will be viewed in Africa. Do get your form changed to reflect your current address. If some official in Africa sees your address on the 4457 does not match the address on the SAPS application you could be in for a goat rope that could ruin your safari.

Mark

I'd change it, not worth the risk. I usually go to the customs website, there's a PDF for the 4457 that you can fill out yourself and print. I bring that copy to the agent for signature.

FYI

I access the form online and insert the info myself, print it, take it to ICE myself. All they do is match numbers and sign off. I also do my own SAPS. That way no idiot ruins my fun.

BEGNO,
Just got back from my first African Safari. I hunted Namibia. Get your 4457 corrected. In Johannesburg if they see something that does not match, it can cause a long delay or cost you a "BIG TIP".
I came back through Atlanta and to claim my firearm, you had to present your Passport and 4457. I'm sure if they don't match it will be a lot of questions.
A word of advice when you arrive in Johannesburg.
After you claim your luggage, you will come to customs. there are two halls, one says "Declare" and the one on the right says "Non-Declare". You should not have anything to declare. When you exit customs, there will be large glass doors on your right. This takes you into the "Greeting Hall" where you find the person sent for you. People will run up to you and want to help. "IGNORE" all of them, say nothing to anyone, don't make eye contact. These people are there just to get tips for doing nothing. Your greeter will be behind a roped off area with a sign. Look for your name. Sometimes your greeter will be in the SAPS office, which is to the right, about 30 or 40 yards further tucked in the corner.
Have a good trip.

Mauser

Thanks for all the advice. I will be getting it corrected.