The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has officially launched its Foreign Vehicle Declaration System in the North West province, with the measure taking effect immediately. The rollout was overseen by SARS Commissioner Dr. Johnstone Makhubu at a border post between South Africa and Botswana.
The new digital system enables travelers entering South Africa with foreign-registered vehicles to declare their vehicles as goods in terms of Section 15 of the Customs and Excise Act. Through the traveler management system, users input biographic and demographic information—including passport details—along with vehicle specifics such as make and license plate numbers.
Upon submission, the system generates a temporary import permit, which serves as proof of legitimate declaration. The permit is valid for six months and allows for multiple entries and exits, reducing the administrative burden on frequent cross-border travelers.
Dr. Johnstone Makhubu explained that the six-month validity period is designed to accommodate regular commuters, such as residents of Lesotho who work or study in South Africa. “The six months is to lessen the burden of having to declare every time,” he said. He added that SARS will review the timeframe in the future to determine whether an extension is warranted.
While the current process requires travelers to collect a printed permit at the port of entry, SARS plans to digitize delivery further by sending permits via WhatsApp in the near future.
Recognizing that not all travelers have immediate access to digital platforms, SARS has deployed iPads and tablets to border officials. Staff members are equipped to assist individuals in completing declarations on-site using these devices. “We want to make it simple and easy for people to comply with the obligations that we have set,” Dr. Makhubu stated.
Early adoption figures indicate strong engagement: approximately 35,000 travelers nationally have already registered on the system and are in the process of obtaining their permits. SARS expressed confidence that this uptake would help ensure a smooth implementation with minimal disruption at border posts.
The Foreign Vehicle Declaration System forms part of SARS’ broader strategy to enhance compliance, streamline border administration, and improve monitoring of assets entering the country.