The South African Revenue Service (SARS) rolled out the new digital border control system, the Traveller Declaration System, on June 1, 2026, marking a significant step towards modernizing border management, improving compliance, and streamlining legitimate travel and trade. The new system requires all foreign-registered vehicles entering South Africa to be declared at ports of entry and issued with a Temporary Import Permit (TIP), including vehicles registered in neighboring Southern African Customs Union (SACU) countries.

SARS Commissioner Dr Johnstone Makhubu visited major border posts, including Skilpadshek and Kopfontein in the North West, as well as Maseru Bridge and Ficksburg Bridge, to oversee the rollout and support frontline officials. The Commissioner emphasized that foreign-registered vehicles from SACU member states are not exempt from customs controls. Over 38 900 Temporary Import Permits had already been issued by May 31 ahead of the system's launch.

The digital platform is designed to reduce paperwork, improve efficiency, and provide greater certainty for regular commuters, traders, tourists, and business travelers. Travelers can complete the declaration process through the SARS website or the SARS MobiApp before traveling. They receive a reference number that must be presented at the border. This reference number is essential for travelers to proceed through customs checkpoints.

SARS officials will assist travelers who have not completed the process through digital kiosks and on-site support services at ports of entry. Traditional customs checks remain in place, and travelers and vehicles may still be inspected by customs officials where necessary. The Commissioner stressed that these measures are necessary to prevent smuggling and other illicit activities.

The new regulations are based on Section 15 of the Customs and Excise Act of 1964, which requires travelers to declare all goods entering or leaving the country. The Commissioner explained that the obligation to declare goods and vehicles at borders is firmly rooted in South African law.

SARS has also emphasized that there is no fee for obtaining a permit or submitting an online declaration. Multiple entries and exits are allowed without requiring a new permit each time. The revenue service says the changes form part of broader efforts to strengthen border security, improve revenue collection, and encourage voluntary compliance with customs laws.

Dr Makhubu described modernization as not about adding red tape but replacing manual, fragmented processes with digital systems that are simpler, faster, and more transparent. He stated that digital systems will enable SARS to collect data more efficiently and make informed decisions. Travelers who fail to comply with the new regulations may face penalties, including fines and legal action.

The SARS system will also help to reduce the risk of smuggling and other illicit activities at borders. This, in turn, will protect South African businesses and citizens from the economic and social impacts of smuggling. The revenue service aims to create a more efficient and secure border crossing experience for all travelers.

Key Facts:

  • Over 38,900 Temporary Import Permits had been issued by May 31 ahead of the system's launch.
  • The new system requires all foreign-registered vehicles to be declared at ports of entry and issued with a Temporary Import Permit.
  • There is no fee for obtaining a permit or submitting an online declaration.
  • Multiple entries and exits are allowed without requiring a new permit each time.
  • Traditional customs checks remain in place, and travelers and vehicles may still be inspected by customs officials where necessary.