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.
“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.
