New mandatory 24-hour travel rule alert for anyone entering or leaving South Africa
The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has issued a reminder to all travellers entering or leaving South Africa that they must submit a Traveller Declaration.
The new rule, which took effect on 1 July 2026, requires all travellers to submit an online Traveller Declaration no more than 24 hours before travelling.
SARS has now alerted travellers that the Traveller Declarations are processed free of charge through official SARS channels, and any fees charged for the service are not affiliated with it.
It said that it has been made aware that independent third-party providers are charging travellers for assistance in completing Traveller Declarations.
However, it stressed that these providers are not affiliated with SARS and that their charges are not SARS fees.
“Travellers can submit declarations directly through the SARS website, or the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) MobiApp,” it said.
“Travellers are encouraged to complete declarations before travelling and use official SARS channels for information and assistance, which is free.”
Third-party assistance is completely optional, and independent providers’ charges are not SARS fees, it said.
The implementation of the SATMS Traveller Declaration follows a trial period launched back in 2022, during which time it was optional.
However, it is now mandatory for all travellers to submit the online declaration within 24 hours, with only a few exceptions.
Exceptions include travellers who experience a system failure, lack internet access, or have “another reasonable ground”.
These travellers will be able to use a paper declaration and receive assistance at the port of entry.
However, SARS stressed that this is reserved for limited cases.
It is pushing the online system to “strengthen data integration and enhance the monitoring, analysis, and reporting of cross-border activities,” it said.
SARS said that travellers wouldn’t be denied entry into or departure from South Africa if the form hasn’t been completed.
Instead, these travellers will be directed by SARS Customs officials to self-service declaration terminals to complete the process.
However, this could lead to travel delays, which the port authorities cannot be held liable for.
Explaining the 24-hour limit, SARS said this is a sufficient window for the service to conduct risk assessments and traveller processing activities before arrival or departure.
“The 24-hour submission window seeks to balance traveller convenience, data accuracy, and operational requirements,” it said.
At present, travellers may submit their declaration at any time within this 24-hour period.
SARS said it is monitoring the system and taking feedback into consideration, but for now has no plans to extend the submission window.
“Any future changes will be communicated through the appropriate governance and consultation processes,” it said.
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