New entry requirement for South Africa

The requirement applies to everyone entering or leaving South Africa by air, car, bus, train or sea, regardless of nationality. Parents or legal guardians may complete the declaration on behalf of children or individuals who are unable to do so themselves.

Transit passengers who remain within the designated international transit area of the airport do not need to submit a Traveller Declaration.

The Traveller Declaration may be completed no more than 24 hours before departure. For journeys involving one or more stopovers, the relevant departure is the final leg travelling directly to South Africa.

The declaration can be submitted online through the South African Traveller Management System – SATMS, available on the website of the South African Revenue Service, or through the SATMS mobile app. Self-service kiosks are also available at certain ports of entry.

Travellers will generally need to provide their passport or travel document details, travel information and contact details. They must also indicate whether they are carrying goods, large amounts of cash or other items that must be declared.

Ordinary personal belongings intended for personal use do not need to be declared.

Travellers will not automatically be refused entry into or departure from South Africa. Those who were unable to submit the declaration in advance can receive assistance from customs officials at the port of entry or use a self-service kiosk where available.

However, failing to declare goods or cash that are subject to declaration, or providing false information, may result in delays, the detention or forfeiture of goods, penalties or further action under customs legislation.