South Africa: New Mandatory Pre-Arrival and Pre-Departure Customs Declaration Requirement Implemented

The South African Revenue Service (SARS), South Africa's customs and tax authority, now requires all travelers (foreign nationals, permanent residents and South African citizens) entering or exiting the country, to complete a mandatory electronic customs declaration online before arriving in or departing from South Africa by air, land, sea or rail. Alternatively, travelers who are unable to complete the declaration before travel may do so at self-service counters at ports of entry and exit, although this may result in longer processing times.  

The declaration requires travelers to disclose declarable goods and other relevant items, including goods exceeding applicable duty-free allowances, prohibited or restricted goods and reportable amounts of cash or currency. Travelers with no goods or items to declare may submit a ‘nil’ declaration.  

The electronic traveler declaration system was initially introduced by SARS as a pilot program at certain airports in 2022. Therefore, as this is a customs requirement administered by SARS, it does not change South Africa's immigration or visa requirements. However, failure to submit a required declaration or submitting false information may result in delays, the detention or forfeiture of goods, penalties or other enforcement action under South Africa's customs legislation. For additional guidance, including declaration requirements and duty-free allowances, travelers should refer to the SARS Frequently Asked Questions webpage. 

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.