What this means for you
One more step before every trip — but it's quick once you know how.
From 1 July 2026, before you fly, drive, sail or catch the train across South Africa's border, you'll need to complete a short online declaration. We've broken the official requirements down below so you know exactly what to do before your next trip with us.
We recommend
Register once on the SATMS app — then it's a 24-hour formality
Download the SATMS (SARS Traveller Management System) app and load your passport details in advance. Do this now, and every future trip only needs a quick declaration within 24 hours of travel.
Duty-free allowances
What you can bring in before duties apply
Every traveller gets a personal allowance — it can't be shared or combined with anyone else's, even a travelling companion.
⚠️ Important: duty-free allowances cannot be shared or combined between travellers.
The full requirements
Everything else you need to know
Tap any question below to expand it.
Who needs to complete a declaration?
The declaration is required for all travellers entering or leaving South Africa by:
- ✈️ Air
- 🚗 Land
- 🚢 Sea
- 🚆 Rail
This includes South African citizens, permanent residents, and foreign visitors. A parent or authorised person may complete the declaration on behalf of minors or anyone unable to complete it themselves.
Who is exempt?
You don't need to complete a declaration if you are:
- An air or sea transit passenger
- Remaining within the designated transit area
- Not entering South Africa
When must it be submitted?
Within 24 hours before departure.
For connecting journeys, submit within 24 hours before the final leg of your journey directly to South Africa.
How do I submit it?
Declarations can be completed using:
- The SARS Traveller Management System (SATMS)
- The SATMS mobile app
- QR code access
- Self-service kiosks (where available)
What information will I need?
Be prepared to provide:
- Travel document (passport) details
- Travel information
- Contact information
- Details of travelling companions
- Declarations relating to goods, currency and other reportable items
Goods & currency — what must be declared?
You do not need to declare: personal effects intended for your own personal use.
You must declare:
- Goods exceeding the allowable limits
- Commercial goods
- Temporary imports or exports
- Currency above the legal reporting thresholds
After you submit
Once your declaration is processed, you'll receive a confirmation and any Customs instructions that apply. Keep your confirmation available — electronically or printed — for when you arrive.
What if my details change?
If any information changes before Customs processing, your declaration must be updated.
Can't submit online?
Assistance is available through Customs officers, self-service terminals, and paper declarations in limited circumstances.
Paper declarations are only permitted if:
- SARS systems are unavailable
- You do not have internet access
- You are reasonably unable to submit electronically
Business travellers
Business travellers must complete a traveller declaration and declare any commercial goods. Additional Customs requirements may also apply — check with us if you're travelling for work.
VAT refunds
VAT refund claims remain available following Customs verification.
If you don't comply
Failing to submit a declaration, or making a false declaration, may result in penalties, travel delays, seizure or forfeiture of goods, and other Customs enforcement action.
Need assistance?
Support is available if you get stuck
Customs counters
Available on arrival and departure at all major ports of entry.
Self-service kiosks
Available at select ports for on-the-spot declarations.
SARS support channels
General guidance on the declaration process and requirements.
Email SARS directly