South Africa Introduces Mandatory Online Traveller Declarations from 1 July 2026

South Africa has officially made online traveller declarations mandatory for all travellers entering or leaving the country from 1 July 2026, marking a major step in modernising customs procedures and improving border processing.

The new requirement, introduced by the South African Revenue Service (SARS), applies to travellers using air, land, sea, and rail ports of entry. Before travelling, passengers must complete an online traveller declaration, unless they qualify for one of the limited paper-based exceptions.

The declaration forms part of South Africa's customs process and enables travellers to declare goods, currency, and other relevant items before arriving at or departing from a port of entry. The digital system is designed to streamline customs formalities, enhance traveller convenience, improve processing times, and strengthen customs risk management.

The requirement applies to South African citizens, residents, and foreign visitors. Parents or guardians may complete declarations on behalf of minors or travellers who are unable to do so themselves. However, air and sea passengers who are only transiting through South Africa without leaving the designated transit area are exempt.

Travellers are required to submit their declaration no more than 24 hours before departure. Those travelling on connecting itineraries to South Africa must complete the declaration within 24 hours before the final leg of their journey to the country.

Declarations can be submitted through the SARS Traveller Management System, the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) mobile app, or self-service kiosks where available. After submission, travellers receive a confirmation containing customs instructions, which should be saved electronically or printed for presentation at the port of entry or departure.