Change Search

New SARS Online Traveller Declaration for South African Travellers

  • By Chantelle Smtiih
  • 2026-07-08
SARS Online Traveller Declaration for travellers crossing the Kosi Bay Border into Mozambique

New SARS Online Traveller Declaration for South African Travellers

If you’re planning a holiday in Southern Mozambique, there’s an important new travel requirement you should know about before crossing the Kosi Bay Border and or any other border crossing between South Africa and Mozambique.

From 1 July 2026, travellers entering or leaving South Africa are required to complete a SARS Online Traveller Declaration before travelling. Whether you’re heading to Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane or Ponta Mamoli, completing the declaration should now form part of your travel preparations.

What is the SARS Online Traveller Declaration?

The SARS Online Traveller Declaration is a new online customs declaration introduced by the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

Instead of completing customs documentation at the border, travellers can now submit their declaration online before travelling. The system is designed to improve customs processing and help make border crossings more efficient.

Do I Need to Complete the SARS Online Traveller Declaration?

Yes.

The declaration applies to travellers entering or leaving South Africa by:

  • Road
  • Air
  • Sea
  • Rail

It applies to:

  • South African citizens
  • Permanent residents
  • Foreign visitors

Parents or legal guardians should complete the declaration on behalf of children or anyone who cannot complete it themselves.

When Should I Complete the Declaration?

The declaration should be completed within 24 hours before your journey begins.

If you’re driving to Mozambique through the Kosi Bay Border, it’s best to complete it before leaving home. This ensures you have all your travel documentation ready before arriving at the border.

Where Do I Complete the SARS Online Traveller Declaration?

The declaration is completed online before you travel.

You’ll be asked for information such as:

  • Passport or travel document details
  • Your travel itinerary
  • Contact details
  • Details of anyone travelling with you
  • Customs declarations, where applicable

After submitting your declaration, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Save a copy on your phone or print it before travelling.

What Should I Take to the Kosi Bay Border?

Before leaving for your Mozambique holiday, make sure you have:

  • Your passport
  • Vehicle documents (if driving)
  • Accommodation confirmation
  • SARS Online Traveller Declaration confirmation
  • Any other travel documents required for your trip

Preparing these documents before you leave home can help make your border crossing quicker and less stressful.

Planning a Holiday in Southern Mozambique?

If you’re still deciding where to stay, learn more about the beautiful coastal destinations of Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane and Ponta Mamoli.

Each destination offers something unique, from vibrant beach villages and excellent snorkelling to peaceful beaches and luxury beachfront holiday homes.

Looking for Accommodation in Southern Mozambique?

GoBundu specialises in privately owned self-catering beach houses in Southern Mozambique.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a trip with friends, you’ll find accommodation to suit every group size.

Browse our accommodation in Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane and Ponta Mamoli to find the perfect holiday home for your next beach escape.

Ready to book? Contact the GoBundu team and let us help you find the perfect accommodation for your Mozambique holiday.

Latest News

SARS Online Traveller Declaration for travellers crossing the Kosi Bay Border into Mozambique

New SARS Online Traveller Declaration for South African Travellers

New SARS Online Traveller Declaration for South African Travellers If you’re planning a holiday in Southern Mozambique, there’s an important new travel requirement you should know about before crossing the Kosi Bay Border and or any other border crossing between South Africa and Mozambique. From 1 July 2026, travellers entering or leaving South Africa are required to complete a SARS Online Traveller Declaration before travelling. Whether you’re heading to Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane or Ponta Mamoli, completing the declaration should now form part of your travel preparations. What is the SARS Online Traveller Declaration? The SARS Online Traveller Declaration is a new online customs declaration introduced by the South African Revenue Service (SARS). Instead of completing customs documentation at the border, travellers can now submit their declaration online before travelling. The system is designed to improve customs processing and help make border crossings more efficient. Do I Need to Complete the SARS Online Traveller Declaration? Yes. The declaration applies to travellers entering or leaving South Africa by: Road Air Sea Rail It applies to: South African citizens Permanent residents Foreign visitors Parents or legal guardians should complete the declaration on behalf of children or anyone who cannot complete it themselves. When Should I Complete the Declaration? The declaration should be completed within 24 hours before your journey begins. If you’re driving to Mozambique through the Kosi Bay Border, it’s best to complete it before leaving home. This ensures you have all your travel documentation ready before arriving at the border. Where Do I Complete the SARS Online Traveller Declaration? The declaration is completed online before you travel. You’ll be asked for information such as: Passport or travel document details Your travel itinerary Contact details Details of anyone travelling with you Customs declarations, where applicable After submitting your declaration, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Save a copy on your phone or print it before travelling. What Should I Take to the Kosi Bay Border? Before leaving for your Mozambique holiday, make sure you have: Your passport Vehicle documents (if driving) Accommodation confirmation SARS Online Traveller Declaration confirmation Any other travel documents required for your trip Preparing these documents before you leave home can help make your border crossing quicker and less stressful. Planning a Holiday in Southern Mozambique? If you’re still deciding where to stay, learn more about the beautiful coastal destinations of Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane and Ponta Mamoli. Each destination offers something unique, from vibrant beach villages and excellent snorkelling to peaceful beaches and luxury beachfront holiday homes. Looking for Accommodation in Southern Mozambique? GoBundu specialises in privately owned self-catering beach houses in Southern Mozambique. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a trip with friends, you’ll find accommodation to suit every group size. Browse our accommodation in Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane and Ponta Mamoli to find the perfect holiday home for your next beach escape. Ready to book? Contact the GoBundu team and let us help you find the perfect accommodation for your Mozambique holiday.

Read More
Mozambique Border Guide

Everything You Need to Know Before Crossing the Kosi Bay Border Into Mozambique

Travelling into Mozambique through the Kosi Bay border should be a smooth and enjoyable part of your journey. Whether you're visiting Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane, or Ponta Mamoli, understanding the latest border requirements helps you arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy your holiday. This guide outlines the most important information every traveller should know before crossing from South Africa into Mozambique. Kosi Bay Border Operating Information The Kosi Bay border normally operates during daytime hours, with extended hours implemented from time to time during peak holiday seasons. Because these hours can change, travellers should always confirm the current operating times before departure. GoBundu guests are welcome to reach out to us for the latest verified update before travelling. Traveller Allowances When Entering Mozambique Travellers entering Mozambique are permitted the following items for personal use: 200 cigarettes 100 cigarillos 50 cigars 250 g smoking tobacco 1 litre spirits 2.25 litres wine 50 ml perfume 250 ml toilet water Medication for personal use Other goods up to USD $200 in value These allowances apply per traveller. What Counts as Personal Effects Personal effects are the items you reasonably need for your trip. These include: Clothing Books Cameras Tools of trade Items purchased during your journey do not qualify as personal effects and may be subject to duties. Important Clarification About Meat This is one of the most common points of confusion, so here is the clear rule: Meat is allowed into Mozambique for personal use. Meat is not allowed back into South Africa. On re-entry into South Africa, any meat products will be confiscated by border officials. Items Not Allowed Into Mozambique Certain items are strictly prohibited when entering Mozambique. These include: Fresh plant material Weapons Ammunition Narcotics Counterfeit goods Pornographic material Carrying these items may result in penalties or delays at the border. Travel Prepared and Enjoy the Journey Crossing the Kosi Bay border is straightforward when you know what to expect. By understanding the current allowances and restrictions, you can avoid hassles and start your Mozambique holiday on the right note. If you're planning a trip and want the latest border updates, our GoBundu team is here to help. Plan Your Mozambique Holiday With GoBundu GoBundu specialises in beautiful beach holiday homes across Ponta do Ouro, Ponta Malongane, and Ponta Mamoli. Whether you’re travelling as a family, group of friends, or couple, we’ll help you find the ideal place to stay.

Read More
gazebo overlooking sunset and ocean

Understanding Malaria Risk in Southern Mozambique: Facts & Tips for GoBundu Guests

Why Southern Mozambique Is Different Malaria prevalence in Mozambique varies dramatically by region. According to the 2022 Demographic Health Survey, northern provinces such as Nampula can see infection rates above 50 %, while the southern region—including Maputo city—records rates as low as 1 % to 20 %. All of GoBundu’s holiday homes are situated in this low‑risk southern corridor. Our founder’s personal experience—six years living in Ponta Malongane with no malaria cases, even during pregnancy—illustrates how rare infections are in this area. When Do Mosquitoes Bite? Mosquitoes are most active from dusk through dawn. During daylight hours the risk of being bitten is minimal. A few practical steps can further reduce the chance of contact: Apply Peaceful Sleep spray or a similar repellent each evening. Based on long‑term local experience, Peaceful Sleep tends to work better than citronella or Tabard. Wear light long‑sleeved clothing after sunset. Use air‑conditioners and ceiling fans to keep rooms cool and breezy; mosquitoes dislike both cold air and wind. Sleep under mosquito nets and bring an electric plug‑in liquid repellent for each bedroom. These simple devices offer an additional barrier and are part of general prophylactic advice. Medication: A Personal Decision We are not medical professionals and cannot recommend whether you should take antimalarial medication. Many travellers to low‑risk areas choose not to take prophylactic drugs, relying instead on bite prevention, but this is a decision that should be made in consultation with your doctor. Your healthcare provider will consider your health history, pregnancy status, and the length of your stay to advise appropriately. Key Takeaways GoBundu homes are in a low‑risk malaria zone. Mosquitoes are mainly active at night; repellent, nets, and plug‑ins are effective deterrents. Cold and wind deter mosquitoes—make use of air‑conditioning and fans. Always consult a medical professional about prophylactic medication. By sharing factual, first‑hand insights, we hope you feel reassured about visiting southern Mozambique. Our goal is to provide a relaxing, informed holiday experience—so you can focus on enjoying the pristine beaches, warm hospitality and tranquil environment GoBundu is known for.

Read More

Subscribe to our Newsletter