Travellers entering or leaving South Africa in foreign-registered vehicles must now declare their vehicles to the South African Revenue Service (SARS) before crossing the border.
The new requirement came into effect on 1 June 2026 as part of SARS’ efforts to modernise customs processes and improve border management.
According to SARS, the measure applies to all foreign-registered vehicles, including those from neighbouring Southern African Customs Union (SACU) countries such as Botswana, Namibia, Lesotho and eSwatini.
What SARS wants travellers to know
Under the new system, travellers must provide key details about themselves and their vehicles when entering or leaving South Africa.
The required information includes passport or travel document details, driver information, the intended duration of stay, the vehicle registration number, country of registration and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
SARS encourages motorists to complete the declaration online before arriving at the border to speed up processing times and reduce delays.
Travellers can submit their declarations through the Customs Online Traveller Declaration portal on the SARS website, the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) mobile application, the SARS MobiApp for eFiling users, or by scanning QR codes available at ports of entry.
Documents required at the border
Motorists must also carry supporting documents when travelling with foreign-registered vehicles.
These include a certified copy of the vehicle registration certificate, permission from the financing institution if the vehicle is financed, a letter of authority if the driver is not the registered owner, or a rental agreement if the vehicle has been hired.
Travellers who are unable to submit their declarations online can still receive assistance from SARS officials at border posts, where service counters and self-service kiosks are available.
SARS explains temporary permits and penalties
SARS said travellers entering South Africa in foreign-registered vehicles will receive a Temporary Import Permit valid for six months. The same permit may be used for multiple entries into the country as long as it remains valid.
Failure to declare a foreign-registered vehicle could result in delays at the border, inspections or enforcement action under the Customs and Excise Act.
SARS stressed that the new requirement does not affect the SACU trade agreement, which governs the movement of commercial goods between member states.
The tax authority said the initiative forms part of a broader customs modernisation programme aimed at improving compliance, strengthening risk detection and enhancing the overall travel experience at South Africa’s borders.
