The South African Revenue Service (SARS) announced that, effective 1 July 2026, all travellers entering or exiting South Africa must complete an online Traveller Declaration before their journey. The declaration, accessible via the SARS digital platform, captures essential information such as travel itinerary, contact details, and health screening data, aiming to streamline border control processes and enhance security. travellers are required to submit the declaration through the designated portal, after which they receive a confirmation link that must be presented at the point of entry. The system will automatically verify the submission against immigration and customs databases, reducing manual paperwork and minimizing delays. Exceptions are provided for emergency situations, but all other travellers must comply. SARS emphasizes that failure to submit the declaration may result in denial of entry or boarding denial for airlines. The rollout includes a dedicated FAQ page and a support hotline to assist users. The new requirement will be enforced by customs officials at all ports of entry, and non‑compliance will be recorded in traveller records for future reference. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to digitise customs and immigration services, align South Africa with global best practices, and improve the efficiency of border management while maintaining robust security measures for the country.