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New South African Revenue Service Commissioner Dr Ngobani Johnstone Makhubu is pictured at the opening of the new service centre in Newtown, Johannesburg on 04 May 2026.
The Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service, Dr Johnstone Makhubu, says the newly launched Foreign Vehicle Declaration System will assist in efforts to modernise cross-border customs operations.
The system, which was launched at both the Skilpadshek and Kopfontein ports of entry in the North West, requires that all Foreign-registered vehicles be declared on the Traveller Management System before entering or leaving South Africa.
The new system also introduces temporary import permits, which are valid for up to six months.
This will allow for multiple crossings, which makes it easier for frequent cross-border travellers to comply while ensuring consistent enforcement at ports of entry.
“The six months allow those who are frequent travellers, for instance, we know in various places like Maseru, there are people who stay in Lesotho, but effectively school and work in South Africa. So, the six months are to lessen the burden of having to declare every time. It allows them multiple entries. So, currently it’s dependent on you being given the printout. In future, we will make sure that the print is avoided, and you get simply a WhatsApp message telling you or giving you your permit,” Makhubu elaborates.
Travellers who used the system say some improvements are still needed.
“I’m travelling to Durban. We managed to register. The system was a bit difficult, but I managed eventually. It’s a good thing,” said one traveller.
“It’s the first day, and it is giving us problems. I could have been in Rustenburg. I am still here at the border. I am going to Joburg. I have to come back today”, another traveller said.
Video: SARS launches new system in North West
