Last month, we reported on SARS’s broader move towards digital customs administration, including the introduction of online declarations for foreign-registered vehicles and the rollout of the South African Traveller Management System. From 1 July 2026, the next phase of that reform is now in effect: almost everyone entering or leaving South Africa must submit an online traveller declaration before travelling.

The requirement applies to South African citizens, residents and foreign visitors travelling through air, land, sea or rail ports. Children and infants must also be covered by declarations, although a parent or guardian may complete these on their behalf. Travellers remaining within a designated airport or seaport transit area are generally excluded.

Declarations must be submitted no more than 24 hours before departure. Travellers can use the SARS online Traveller Management System, the SATMS mobile application, the SARS MobiApp or available QR-code and self-service facilities. They will need passport or travel-document details, travel and contact information, details of companions and, where relevant, information about goods, currency or business travel.

Even travellers with nothing to declare must complete the process. Goods exceeding the applicable duty-free allowance, commercial goods, restricted items, foreign-registered vehicles and currency or negotiable instruments above the permitted threshold must be disclosed. Ordinary personal effects for personal use generally do not need to be individually declared.

After submission, SARS emails a confirmation containing instructions for Customs processing. Travellers should retain this electronically or in printed form and update the declaration if any details change. A failure to complete the form before arrival will not, by itself, prevent entry or departure. However, failing to make a complete and truthful declaration may result in delays, penalties, detention or forfeiture of goods.

Travellers should therefore make the declaration part of their standard pre-travel checklist rather than waiting until they reach the border.