SA Introduces New Border Rule: Travellers Now Have Just 24 Hours to Complete This Important Step

South Africans and international travellers entering or leaving the country must now follow a new mandatory rule introduced by the South African Revenue Service (SARS). The requirement, which came into effect on 1 July 2026, means that travellers must complete an online declaration within 24 hours before travelling across the country’s borders.

The new system applies to people travelling into or out of South Africa by air, road, sea and rail. This includes South African citizens, permanent residents and foreign visitors. Anyone planning an international trip must therefore familiarise themselves with the new requirements to avoid unnecessary confusion at border posts and airports.

According to SARS, the new requirement forms part of the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS). The digital platform allows travellers to declare goods, cash, foreign currency and other relevant items they are carrying when entering or leaving the country.

Travellers can complete their declarations through the SARS Customs Online Traveller Declaration portal, the SATMS mobile application or by scanning an official QR code. Self-service kiosks are also available at certain ports of entry.

One important detail is the 24-hour submission window. Travellers must submit their declarations no more than 24 hours before departing from the country they are travelling from. Those travelling to South Africa with stopovers must complete the process within 24 hours before departing on the final flight directly to South Africa.

Parents and guardians are also responsible for completing declarations on behalf of children and infants travelling with them.

However, there is an exception for passengers who are only transiting through South Africa by air or sea and remain inside the designated transit area.

SARS has explained that travellers will not automatically be refused entry or departure simply because they failed to complete the declaration beforehand. Officials and self-service facilities will be available to assist those who experience difficulties.

The new rule is intended to make customs processing easier, improve border management and strengthen the monitoring of cross-border activities.

For travellers, the message is simple: prepare before your journey, understand the 24-hour rule and make sure your declaration is completed correctly.

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