As of 1 July 2026, all travellers entering or leaving South Africa by air, land, sea and rail ports of entry are required to submit an online traveller declaration before travelling.
According to the South African Revenue Service (SARS), the implementation adopts a whole-of-government approach to strengthen data integration and facilitate inter-agency risk management, thereby improving the monitoring, analysis and reporting of cross-border movements.
“The South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) enables travellers to meet their legal obligation to declare goods in their possession, including currency, through digital channels such as the South African Revenue Service (SARS) Customs Online Traveller Declaration Portal, the SATMS mobile application and Scan-to-Declare QR codes,” SARS said on its website.
SARS said that by improving convenience and digital accessibility, SATMS is intended to promote voluntary compliance, simplify the declaration process and enhance the overall border experience for travellers.
Travellers will not be denied entry into or departure from South Africa solely for failing to complete a declaration before arriving at a port of entry.
SARS Customs officials, supported by self-service declaration terminals, are available to assist travellers who were unable to submit their declarations in advance.
SARS encourages all travellers to familiarise themselves with the new requirements and complete their declarations ahead of travel to ensure a smooth and efficient process.
https://tools.sars.gov.za/sarsonlinequery/traveller
