05/07/2026
Please take note of an important update from SARS regarding the Customs Online Traveller Declaration process.
With effect from 1 July 2026, travellers entering or leaving South Africa will be required to submit an online traveller declaration before they travel, unless they qualify for one of the limited paper-based exceptions.
https://www.sars.gov.za/travellerdeclaration/
This declaration forms part of the SARS Customs process and is intended to assist travellers in meeting their legal obligation to declare goods, currency and any other relevant items in their possession.
Who must complete the declaration?
In general, all travellers entering or leaving South Africa by air, land, sea or rail must complete the declaration. This includes:
South African citizens and residents
Foreign travellers
Business travellers
Children and infants
Where a traveller is a minor, or is unable to complete the declaration themselves, a parent, legal guardian, caretaker or assisting person may complete it on their behalf.
When must it be completed?
The declaration must be submitted no more than 24 hours before departure from the country from which the traveller is travelling.
For travellers with connecting flights into South Africa, the declaration must be completed no more than 24 hours before departure on the final leg directly to South Africa.
How can travellers complete the declaration?
https://www.sars.gov.za/travellerdeclaration/
Travellers will generally need the following information:
Passport or travel document details
Travel details
Contact details
Details of travelling companions, where applicable
Business or entity details, if travelling for business
Details of goods, currency or bearer negotiable instruments that need to be declared
What happens after submission?
Once the declaration has been submitted, SARS will send a confirmation by email. Travellers should keep this confirmation available on their mobile device or print a copy, as it may be requested by Customs officials at the port of entry or exit.
Important points to note
Ordinary personal effects for personal use do not need to be declared, unless they exceed the applicable traveller allowance or require Customs attention.
Travellers must declare goods, currency or other relevant items where required.
Air or sea travellers who are only transiting through South Africa and do not leave the designated transit area are excluded from submitting a declaration.
If a traveller cannot submit the declaration online due to a system issue, lack of internet access or another reasonable ground, assistance may be available at the port.
Failure to submit a proper declaration, or making a false declaration, may result in delays, penalties, detention or forfeiture of goods, or other Customs enforcement action.
