Ugandans Face New Mandatory Online Customs Declaration for South Africa Travel

Effective July 1, 2026, all travellers entering or leaving South Africa, regardless of their mode of transport (air, land, or sea), are required to submit an online customs declaration. This move by the South African Revenue Service (SARS) aims to modernize customs processes, enhance border security, and expedite traveller processing.

The new digital system replaces the traditional paper forms for most travelers. SARS has stated that this online declaration is now a legal obligation for all passengers wishing to meet their customs duties regarding goods, currency, and other items.

Thousands of Ugandans who travel to South Africa annually for various reasons, including business, education, and tourism, will be affected by this change. It is crucial to note that this online customs declaration does not negate existing immigration requirements, meaning Ugandan passport holders still need to secure necessary visas before travelling.

Before their journey, travellers will need to provide passport information, their travel itinerary, contact details, information about accompanying individuals, and details of any business travel. Critically, they must declare any goods, cash, or foreign currency that requires customs declaration.

Parents or guardians travelling with minors are responsible for completing the declarations on behalf of the children. The declaration can be submitted via the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS) on the SARS website, or through their mobile applications. Upon submission, travellers will receive an electronic confirmation via email, which they should retain on their devices or print.

SARS confirmed that the digital system is now operational at all South African airports, land border posts, and sea ports, having been piloted at major international airports. The authority asserts that this online system will reduce paperwork, improve compliance, and strengthen risk management at the country’s borders, offering a more seamless experience than the previous manual process.

For Ugandan travellers, this new requirement adds another step to pre-departure preparations, alongside ensuring they have valid passports, visas (if applicable), and travel tickets. The declaration must be submitted before commencing the journey.

Source: Nile Post