If you’re travelling to or from South Africa, there’s an important change you need to know about before you pack your bags.
As of 1 July 2026, South Africa’s new digital declaration system is now mandatory for all international travellers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular guest, this is a step you can’t skip — so here’s everything you need to know, in plain English.
What’s changed?
South Africa’s Revenue Service (SARS) has rolled out a new online Traveller Management System. Instead of filling in paper customs forms at the airport, travellers now complete a digital declaration before they arrive — and in many cases, before they even leave home.
The goal is a smoother, faster border experience, with tighter security and compliance behind the scenes. For travellers, it means one extra step to complete online — but a potentially quicker path through customs when you land.
Do I need to do this?
Yes. The requirement applies to just about everyone entering or leaving South Africa by air, land, sea, or rail — including South African citizens, residents, and international visitors. Business travellers and families travelling with children also need to complete a declaration (a parent or guardian can do this on behalf of a minor).
The main exception is passengers who are simply transiting through South Africa and staying within the designated transit area — they don’t need to submit one.
When do I submit it?
Timing matters here, so don’t do this too early:
- Submit your declaration no more than 24 hours before you depart for South Africa.
- If your journey has connecting flights, base the 24-hour window on the final leg directly into South Africa — not your very first flight.
How do I submit it?
You can complete your declaration through the official SARS Traveller Management System:
👉 tools.sars.gov.za/sarsonlinequery/traveller
Have the following ready before you start:
- Passport or travel document details
- Your travel details (flights, dates, etc.)
- Contact details
- Details of anyone travelling with you
- Information on any goods, currency, or bearer negotiable instruments you’re carrying that need to be declared
If the system flags anything for further attention, you may be asked for a few extra details — this is normal.
What happens after I submit it?
Once your declaration is in, SARS will send you a confirmation with instructions for what to do when you reach the port of entry or exit. We tested it and got the ‘on arrival follow the green line’ for Johannesburg arrivals!
Keep this confirmation handy — save it on your phone or print it out — and follow the signage and instructions once you’re at the airport or border post.
Our advice: don’t leave it to the last minute
Because the declaration must be done within 24 hours of departure, it’s easy to forget in the rush of final packing. Our recommendation:
- Set a reminder for the day before you fly
- Complete it as a family/group in one sitting if you’re travelling together
- Screenshot or download your confirmation as soon as you receive it
If you’re travelling with us and have any questions about this new process, get in touch — we’re happy to help you through it.
This information is based on the latest guidance from SARS as of July 2026. Requirements can change, so we always recommend checking the official SARS Traveller Management System directly closer to your travel date.