The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced the introduction of an online traveller declaration system to take effect, first at OR Tambo during November, and then to be rolled out to all international airports during the first quarter of 2023.

SARS says it is to “simplify passenger movement at South African airports”. How it will achieve that end remains a mystery, as the methodology outlined by SARS in its own document adds complexity rather than simplifying any aspect.

SARS says in its release: “The new system requires all travellers, including South African citizens and residents, children and infants, leaving or entering South Africa by air to complete and submit an online traveller declaration, as well as receive a traveller pass before they travel.” This implies that all travellers, including foreign tourists, will be subject to this process, but clearly, clarification on this point will be required.

“The new traveller declaration process is an online system that collects travel information and returns a traveller pass via email. Upon arrival in South Africa, there will be instructions at the airports that will guide and inform travellers what to do next,” says SARS’ statement. 

SARS does not supply the URL for the link for travellers, nor any way to address queries about the system.

Tourism Update will report back on reactions to the announcement and developments to this story.

Webinar will unpack details

Inbound industry association, SATSA, is inviting the entire industry (members, non-member, and stakeholders) to join its CEO, David Frost, and a panel from SARS for a webinar which will unpack the ins and outs of the system and what exactly it means for travellers:

The webinar will be held on Tuesday, October 18 at 10h00. Click here to register.

While the webinar will provide an opportunity to pose questions to the panel, industry can send any questions they may have to hannelie@satsa.co.za. This will help in guiding the conversation and providing the best insights.