by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 11:10 AM ET, Wed July 22, 2026
South Africa has added a new online traveler customs declaration form to its entry requirements as of July 1, 2026. Here’s what travelers should know about the new system.
According to our sister publication, Travel Weekly, the new system, called the Customs Online Traveller Declaration, is a required online step for any travelers entering or leaving South Africa, including South African citizens and children.
Those exempt include those transiting through South Africa by air or sea.
The South African Revenue Service is the country’s tax and customs authority and is leading the new system, which can be submitted no more than 24 hours before departure on the final leg of their trip.
Travelers can fill out the form on the Revenue Service website or on the South African Traveller Management System app. Upon arrival, there will also be a QR code system available at the airport.
No travelers will be turned away for skipping the new step, but should a traveler forget to complete it, they’ll be required to do so upon entry with the help of customs officers or at self-service terminals.
The online form requires travelers to pre-declare goods, currency and other items before entering or leaving South Africa. Personal items don’t need to be declared, but anything over $270 in South African rand may draw duties and VAT. Business travelers are required to flag the purpose of their travel, especially if they’re bringing in commercial goods to sell.
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