More and more countries want us to pre-authorize our stays in their countries to make traveling through passport control and customs a little smoother (and probably with less staff).

South Africa is now requiring that all travelers entering or leaving the country to complete a mandatory online customs declaration within 24 hours of departure. The digital declaration, which replaces paper forms, applies to citizens, residents, and foreign nationals traveling through air, land, sea, and rail borders.

Travelers must complete the declaration through the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS), either via the SARS Customs Online Traveller Declaration Portal or the SATMS mobile app. The app is preferred for multiple entries as it will save your details.

Passengers transiting through South Africa who remain within designated airport or port transit areas are exempt.

After submitting the form, you will receive an electronic confirmation by email. This confirmation should be saved on a mobile device or printed for presentation to customs officials upon arrival or departure.

Failure to submit a declaration or providing false information may result in border delays, financial penalties, or the forfeiture of undeclared goods or cash.