Travelling to South Africa? Here's What You Need to Know About the New Online Traveller Declaration

Planning a photographic safari involves enough excitement without unexpected paperwork. To help you prepare, we'd like to highlight a new travel requirement for anyone entering or leaving South Africa.

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has introduced an online Traveller Declaration, which most travellers must complete before they travel.

Fortunately, the process is straightforward and only takes a few minutes.

Who needs to complete the declaration?

The online declaration applies to all travellers, including:

• South African citizens

• International visitors

• Business travellers

• Children and infants (a parent or guardian can complete the declaration on their behalf)

When should you complete it?

The declaration should be submitted within 24 hours before departing for South Africa.

If your journey includes connecting flights, complete the declaration before boarding the final flight into South Africa.

What information will you need?

Before you begin, have the following ready:

• Your passport details

• Flight and travel information

• Contact details

• Details of any goods or currency that need to be declared

Once you've submitted the declaration, SARS will send you a confirmation email. We recommend saving a digital copy on your phone or printing it, as Customs officials may ask to see it when you arrive or depart.

A few helpful reminders

• Personal belongings for your own use generally don't need to be declared unless they exceed the duty-free allowance.

• If you're transiting through South Africa without leaving the designated transit area, you don't need to complete a declaration.

• If you experience difficulties submitting the form before you travel, assistance may be available at your port of entry.

• Providing incorrect or incomplete information may result in delays or penalties.

Before You Travel

We recommend completing your Traveller Declaration before leaving for the airport so that you can focus on what really matters—your journey.

If you're travelling with C4 Photo Safaris and have any questions before your departure, our team is always happy to help.

We look forward to welcoming you to Africa.