An announcement from SARS earlier this month stated that travellers coming to and from South Africa are now required to complete an online traveller declaration.

This is part of the customs process meant to simplify border procedures while improving the monitoring of goods, cash and other items being brought into or taken out of the country.

What if you can’t complete it before arriving?

SARS has clarified that while the declaration is mandatory, no one will be denied entry or departure if it has not been completed.

If a traveller cannot submit the online declaration before arriving at a port of entry, SARS says you may be assisted by an officer or at a self-service terminal where available.

In such cases, you will need to complete the prescribed paper forms at the Customs processing area.

More SARS FAQ’s here.