SARS introduces mandatory new border rules for all foreign vehicles entering South Africa

South African Revenue Service has introduced major new customs rules for all foreign-registered vehicles entering or leaving South Africa, with the regulations officially taking effect from 1 June 2026.

The updated system now requires motorists to digitally declare foreign vehicles before crossing South African borders through SARS’ Traveller Management System (TMS).

The new rules fall under Section 15 of the Customs and Excise Act, 1964.

New SARS vehicle declaration rules now mandatory

Under the updated regulations:

• All foreign-registered vehicles must be digitally declared
• Pre-declaration is now compulsory
• Previous SACU customs exemptions no longer apply
• Physical border inspections remain mandatory

The changes affect all vehicles with foreign registration plates, including motorists travelling from:

• Botswana
• Lesotho
• Namibia
• Eswatini

No fee for the new SARS vehicle declaration process

SARS says there is currently:

• No charge for submitting the declaration
• No fee for the Temporary Import Permit (TIP)

However, travellers must still physically present their vehicles at border posts for customs inspection, even after completing the digital process.

Temporary Import Permit valid for six months

Once approved, motorists receive a Temporary Import Permit valid for up to six months.

The permit allows:

• Multiple border crossings
• Easier travel for frequent commuters
• Simplified movement for business travellers and students

Regular cross-border commuters do not need to re-declare vehicles daily while the permit remains valid.

However, motorists must renew the permit online before expiry.

Information motorists must submit online

Drivers are required to capture the following information digitally:

• Passport or travel document details
• Driver’s licence details
• Vehicle registration number
• Country of registration
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Intended duration of stay

Documents required at the border

Travellers must also carry physical supporting documents when arriving at border posts.

Required documents include:

• Certified copy of vehicle registration papers
• Permission letter from the bank if the vehicle is financed
• Owner authorisation letter if driving someone else’s vehicle
• Rental agreement and cross-border approval letter for rental vehicles

How to submit the SARS declaration

Motorists can complete the process using:

• The SARS Traveller Declaration Portal
• The SATMS Mobi App
• The SARS MobiApp

SARS says travellers unable to complete the process beforehand will still receive assistance at border posts through:

• Self-service kiosks
• SARS customs officials

New system aims to improve border management

The updated declaration process forms part of SARS’ broader push to modernise customs management and strengthen monitoring of cross-border vehicle movement.

The system is also expected to improve tracking, compliance and border processing efficiency for foreign vehicles entering South Africa.

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