The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has confirmed that the online traveller declaration system has been expanded and is currently in the implementation phase.
“It has already been rolled out successfully at the main airports and is currently being rolled out to other airports and seaports,” said a SARS spokesperson in an email to Tourism Update.
The spokesperson added: “We do not foresee any strain on the system during the festive season.”
As part of a modernisation programme, SARS Customs implemented the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) on a pilot basis at airports in South Africa in February.
The revenue authority designed the system as a web-based application that allows travellers to pre-declare goods they have acquired and pay the applicable taxes upon entering or leaving the country.
It requires travellers to declare various goods, including products purchased or acquired abroad, repaired or remodelled goods, and anything that is prohibited or controlled by law.
The first phase of the pilot saw the system roll out to major airports, including OR Tambo and Cape Town International. The revenue service has now launched the second phase, which includes the implementation of the SATMS at sea ports.
Although it will have a widespread implementation, the new system will continue on a voluntary basis during the pilot phase until further notice.
Full particulars of the following must be declared:
Upon entering South Africa
- Goods acquired abroad on which duty has not been paid;
- Repaired, processed or remodelled goods;
- Prohibited, restricted or controlled goods; and
- Goods temporarily imported with the intention of being re-exported.
Before leaving South Africa:
- Goods intended to be repaired, processed or remodelled;
- Prohibited, restricted or controlled goods; and
- Goods temporarily exported with the intention of being re-imported.
Travellers can access the online traveller declaration system through the SARS website; SARS MobiApp; or the QR Code found displayed on the banners or pamphlets at the Customs ports of entry.
