Travel SARS Declaration
From 1 July 2026, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has made the Online Traveller Declaration compulsory for most people entering or leaving South Africa. This replaces the previous paper-based customs declaration for most travellers and forms part of the Customs clearance process.
Who must complete it?
- The declaration is required for:
- South African citizens
- Permanent residents
- Foreign visitors
- Travellers entering or leaving South Africa by air, land, sea, or rail
- Children and infants (completed by a parent or guardian)
Who is exempt?
The main exemption is for air or sea passengers who are only transiting through South Africa and who remain within the international transit area without entering the country.
When must it be completed?
- The declaration must be submitted within 24 hours before departure:
- When travelling to South Africa (within 24 hours before the final flight or leg of your journey to South Africa.
- When departing South Africa (within 24 hours before your departure.)
What information is required?
- Travellers will need:
- Passport or travel document details
- Flight or travel itinerary
- Contact details
- Details of accompanying travellers
- Information about any goods, currency or other items that must be declared to Customs
Do I need to declare personal belongings?
- No. Ordinary personal effects for your own use do not need to be declared. However, you must declare:
- Goods exceeding your duty-free allowance
- Currency or bearer negotiable instruments above the prescribed limits
- Commercial goods or other items requiring Customs attention.
How do I complete the declaration?
- The declaration can be submitted through:
- The official SARS Traveller Management System
- The SATMS mobile app
- QR codes provided by SARS
- Self-service kiosks at selected ports of entry
After submission, you’ll receive an email confirmation with instructions for Customs. Keep this confirmation available on your phone or as a printed copy when traveling.
What if I can't complete it online?
- Paper declarations are only permitted in limited circumstances, such as:
- SARS system failures
- No internet connectivity
- Other situations where electronic submission is not reasonably possible.
What happens if I don't complete it?
- Failure to submit the declaration or making a false declaration may result in:
- Delays at Customs
- Inspection or detention of goods
- Penalties or other enforcement action under Customs legislation.
For the official declaration portal and FAQs, see:
Current implementation: Since the requirement came into effect on 1 July 2026, there have been reports of some travellers experiencing technical issues with the online system and inconsistent enforcement at certain ports of entry while officials adapt to the new process. SARS has indicated that paper declarations may be used where there is a genuine system failure.
