South Africa Makes Online Traveller Declarations Mandatory from 1 July 2026
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has introduced a mandatory online traveller declaration requirement for all persons entering or leaving South Africa, effective 1 July 2026. Applicable across air, land, sea and rail ports of entry, the measure forms part of the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) - a whole-of-government initiative designed to strengthen cross-border data integration and inter-agency risk management.
Declarations can be submitted in advance via the SARS Customs Online Traveller Declaration Portal, the SATMS mobile application, or Scan-to-Declare QR codes at ports of entry. Travellers who arrive without a completed declaration will not be denied entry or exit, with SARS customs officials and self-service terminals available on-site to assist. The new requirement has direct implications for the tourism industry, as inbound and outbound visitors will need to familiarise themselves with the process ahead of travel to avoid delays at the border.
Source: South African Revenue Services