The Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs advises Trinidad and Tobago nationals travelling to the Republic of South Africa of the implementation of a mandatory digital customs requirement, the South African Traveller Management System (SATMS).
Accordingly, citizens are asked to note that the SATMS platform, which was implemented as part of South Africa’s Smart Borders initiative, replaces traditional paper declarations and is mandatory for all international travellers entering or leaving South Africa by air, land, sea, or rail.
Key Requirements for Travellers
• Mandatory Compliance: The system applies to all individuals, including citizens, business visitors, tourists, and diplomatic personnel. Only international transit passengers who remain strictly within the designated transit area are exempted.
• Submission Window: Electronic declarations must be submitted within 24 hours of departure on the final leg of the journey to or from South Africa.
• Information Needed: Travellers must submit passport details, travel itineraries, contact information, details of travelling companions, and declarations for any goods or currency.
• Currency Regulations: Cash amounts up to R100,000 (approximately US$6,000) must be declared via the system. Carrying cash exceeding this limit requires prior written permission from the South African Reserve Bank.
How to Access the System
Travellers are strongly advised to complete their declarations online before departure. Self-service kiosks are available at South African ports of entry, but they are intended only as a contingency measure rather than the primary method.
Access points for the platform include:
• Website: https://tools.sars.gov.za/sarsonlinequery/traveller?utm_source=chatgpt.com
• Mobile Applications: Available for download on Android via Google Play, Apple iOS via the App Store, and Huawei AppGallery.
