South Africa Traveller Declaration

Everyone entering or leaving South Africa by air, land, sea or rail — South African citizens, residents and foreign travellers alike. A parent, legal guardian or another assisting person may complete it on behalf of a minor, or of someone who cannot do so themselves.

No more than 24 hours before departure from the country you're travelling from. On a journey with stops, submit within 24 hours of departure on the final leg flying directly to South Africa.

Every traveller needs their own declaration, including children and infants. A parent or legal guardian submits on the child's behalf and takes responsibility for the accuracy of the information provided.

Air or sea travellers who are only transiting through South Africa and do not leave the designated transit area are excluded — they don't need to submit a declaration.

Where a SARS systems failure, no internet access, or another reasonable ground prevents online submission, travellers can be assisted at the port by an officer or a self-service terminal where available. In limited cases a paper form may still be completed in the Customs processing area.

It's how travellers meet their legal obligation to declare goods, including currency, in their possession. The digital process is designed to be simpler and faster than the old paper card, with better risk screening at ports of entry.