02/07/2026
*SOUTH AFRICA*
As of July 1, 2026, all travelers entering or leaving South Africa are required to complete a mandatory online declaration within 24 hours of their departure. The system replaces paper customs forms and applies to all citizens, residents, and foreign nationals crossing by air, road, or sea.
*Mandatory Online Declaration*
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) now requires all travelers to submit their information digitally via the *South African Traveller Management System (SATMS).*
*When:* Must be submitted within 24 hours prior to departure.
*Where:* Complete it online through the SARS Traveller Declaration portal (https://tools.sars.gov.za/sarsonlinequery/traveller), the SARS mobi-app, or at digital kiosks at ports of entry.
*What:* You must declare goods, currency over legal thresholds, and items for business, though personal belongings are exempt.
*Standard Entry Requirements*
Alongside the new digital declaration, existing strict entry rules remain fully enforced:
*Passport Validity:* Must be valid for at least *30 days after your intended date of departure* from South Africa.
*Blank Pages:* You must have at least two consecutive completely blank visa pages in your passport. Do not count endorsement or amendment pages. Airlines will strictly enforce this, and you will be denied boarding or entry upon arrival.
*Visas:* Entry requirements vary heavily by nationality. Confirm whether you need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) by checking the South Africa Department of Home Affairs website before you travel.
