All foreign-registered vehicles entering or leaving South Africa must now be declared through the South African Revenue Service’s digital Traveller Declaration System.

The rule took effect on 1 June 2026.

According to SARS, all travellers crossing South Africa’s borders must submit an online customs declaration and declare any foreign-registered vehicle they bring into the country.

The revenue service said the system forms part of its push to modernise border controls, support legal travel and trade and reduce non-compliance.

Nearly 39,000 Vehicles Already Registered

SARS said nearly 39,000 foreign-registered vehicles had already been registered before the new requirement became mandatory.

By 31 May 2026, more than 38,900 Temporary Import Permits had been issued.

SARS Commissioner Johnstone Makhubu said the requirement is grounded in South African law.

“The obligation to declare goods and vehicles at our borders is firmly rooted in South African law, which clearly states that everyone must declare everything they bring into or take out of the country,” he said.

He added that SARS and other law enforcement agencies must enforce the rules fairly while making it easier for honest travellers to comply.

SACU Vehicles are Included

SARS said the rule also applies to vehicles from Southern African Customs Union countries.

Makhubu said SACU arrangements support trade, but do not remove customs controls.

“A vehicle registered outside South Africa remains a foreign vehicle under our law and must be declared as such,” he said.

Foreign vehicles entering South Africa must be declared to Customs and issued a Temporary Import Permit at the border.

The permit allows a foreign vehicle to be used legally in South Africa for a temporary period. It is valid for up to six months and can be used for multiple entries and exits during that period.

No Fee for Travellers

SARS said there is no fee to submit a traveller declaration or receive a Temporary Import Permit.

Travellers can complete the digital declaration through the SARS website or SARS MobiApp before travelling.

Once the declaration is submitted, travellers receive a reference number to present at the border.

SARS said travellers without online access before arrival will be helped at ports of entry through digital kiosks and staff support.

Traditional border checks will still remain in place. Travellers and vehicles must still report to Customs and may be inspected where required.