SARS Online Traveller Declaration Now Required
SARS now requires everyone entering or leaving South Africa to complete an online Traveller Declaration before they travel. The requirement came into effect on 1 July 2026 under the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS).
The declaration forms part of the Customs process and helps travellers meet their legal obligations to declare goods, currency and other regulated items.
Who needs to do this
This applies to:
- South African citizens
- Permanent residents
- Foreign travellers visiting South Africa
- Anyone travelling by air, land, sea, or rail
A parent, guardian, caregiver, or assisting person may complete the declaration on behalf of a minor or someone unable to do so themselves.
Exemption: If you're simply transiting through South Africa by air or sea and staying within the designated transit area, you don't need to submit a declaration.
When to submit your declaration
Complete your declaration within 24 hours before departure from the country you're travelling from.
If you’re flying to South Africa with connecting flights, you only need to complete it within 24 hours before departure of the final leg of your journey.
How can travellers submit the declaration?
You can complete your declaration through:
- The SARS Traveller Management System (TMS) on the SARS website
- The South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) mobile application
- QR code access via an internet-enabled device
- Self-service kiosks at selected ports where available
What you will need
Please have the following details available:
- Passport or travel document details
- Your travel itinerary
- Contact information
- Details of any travelling companions
- Information on any goods, currency, or bearer negotiable instruments you need to declare
Before you travel
- Complete your declaration within 24 hours of departure
- Save a copy of your confirmation, digital or printed, as you may need to present it on arrival or departure
- Build this step into your pre-departure checklist to avoid delays at customs
Need help?
For full details, visit the official SARS pages: