Jashwin Baijoo | Associate Director | Tax Consulting SA | mail me |
Ahead of the peak holiday season, the South African Revenue Service (SARS) has issued a timely reminder to travellers. It urges everyone entering or leaving South Africa to use the SARS Online Traveller Declaration System. This step helps streamline processing at ports of entry.
The online system allows travellers to declare goods and currency in advance. As a result, processing becomes smoother at land borders, airports and seaports. In practice, SARS keeps its eyes on all travellers while reducing unnecessary delays.
With increased travel volumes expected during December, SARS expects pressure at border posts. For this reason, the automated process plays a critical role. It reduces congestion and ensures travellers arrive with the correct documentation. At the same time, SARS keeps its eyes on all travellers to manage compliance risks.
Who can use the online system?
All travellers may use the system. This includes South African citizens and residents who enter or leave the country. They can complete and submit an online declaration before travelling. They also receive electronic confirmation.
Travellers with children or infants must submit declarations on their behalf. This requirement applies regardless of travel purpose.
SARS first piloted the system in 2022. It launched at King Shaka, Cape Town International, and OR Tambo International airports. Since then, SARS has rolled it out across all ports of entry.
At present, use of the system remains optional. However, SARS expects it to become mandatory in the near future. Travellers may still approach Customs officers for assistance at any port of entry.
Why traveller declarations are required
The law requires travellers to declare certain goods and cash when entering or leaving South Africa. These requirements align with international practice. They also comply with the Customs and Excise Act No. 91 of 1964.
SARS explains that manual declaration forms created challenges in the past. They increased the officer workload and introduced risk. They also resulted in poor traveller experiences. In response, SARS keeps its eyes on all travellers through a more efficient digital process.
Declare in four easy steps
The online system allows travellers to pre-declare goods they purchase, receive or acquire. In addition, it handles traveller information more securely. This approach enables Customs officials to focus on higher-value enforcement activities.
The process is quick and straightforward. Travellers only need their travel details:
- Step 1 – Download the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) app. Alternatively, visit www.sars.gov.za/travellerdeclaration/. Then click “Complete Declaration”.
- Step 2 – Enter your personal details and click “Next”. Select your traveller type, personal or business and complete the required information.
- Step 3 – Declare all goods and currency in your possession. Pay any applicable duties and VAT.
- Step 4 – Submit your declaration. You will receive confirmation by email or SMS. Save it on your device or print it for easy access when Customs officers request it.
What you will need
On arrival, proceed to the Customs Control area as instructed in your confirmation. Those departing South Africa must visit the customs office to register goods for re-importation. Alternatively, they should follow the instructions provided in their confirmation. Travellers may also claim VAT refunds or acquit goods registered for temporary importation at this stage.
Travellers should prepare the following information in advance:
- Passport details
- Travel details
- Contact details
- Details of travel companions
- Entity details for business travel
- Information on goods, cash and Bearer Negotiable Instruments entering or leaving the country
The system simplifies compliance with legal obligations. It also creates a more seamless process at ports of entry. Risk management tools help Customs manage growing traveller volumes. This allows enforcement teams to focus on non-compliance. Secure data handling and a single government-wide view of travellers further strengthen oversight. In effect, SARS keeps its eyes on all travellers while improving efficiency.
Another step in SARS’ modernisation journey
SARS positions the online declaration system as part of its broader Customs Modernisation Programme. This programme forms part of the SMART Border initiative. It aims to enable pre-clearance and faster movement through ports of entry. This development also aligns South Africa with countries such as New Zealand, the United States, Canada and Australia. All use similar traveller declaration processes.
We view this as part of SARS’ long-term vision. SARS has made significant progress over the past five years. These efforts simplify taxpayer interaction while strengthening enforcement capacity. Ultimately, SARS keeps its eyes on all travellers as part of a smarter, modernised revenue authority.
