Published on 1 February 2026

South Africa: Import and customs requirements

Introductory explanations on the import regulations in South Africa.

Anyone arriving in South Africa by land, sea or air must go through immigration control before collecting their luggage. The immigration control is conducted by the Department of Home Affairs. Travellers with goods to declare must complete a TC-01 traveller card and notify a customs official on site. The official will then issue a traveller declaration (TRD1). Customs officials may also x-ray or examine luggage for goods that are restricted, prohibited or subject to customs duties. Travellers carrying undeclared, restricted or prohibited goods may face a fine or criminal prosecution.

Provisions on importing animals, food, organic products and medicines must also be adhered to. For example, importing certain live or dead animal species or parts derived from them could be restricted or prohibited; this may also apply to certain live or dead plants classified as endangered. It is advisable to carefully read the regulations on goods whose importation is restricted or prohibited.

Traveller’s guide

Customs requirements when entering and leaving South Africa.

South African Customs Service

Passenger Arrival Card

You must declare all imports on arrival.

Allowances and charges

Certain imports carry a surcharge or a fee.

Prohibited and restricted items

Certain goods may not be imported into South Africa or require a permit.

Personal household items

Information on importing private household goods into South Africa.

Bringing pets and animals into South Africa

There are strict regulations for importing live animals into South Africa.

Vehicles, boats and planes

Import regulations for vehicles, boats and aircraft.

Swiss banking services for Swiss citizens abroad

Current situation

In view of stricter international regulatory requirements in recent years, financial institutions have become increasingly sensitive to potential legal and reputational risks, especially in relation to cross-border banking services. Swiss financial institutions therefore provide no or only limited access to certain financial services to individuals living outside Switzerland. Nevertheless, subject to local and Swiss legal provisions, many still offer current accounts to Swiss nationals living in various countries.

Talk with your bank as soon as possible about your options

The relationship between customers and their bank is governed by private law. If you are planning to relocate abroad or return to Switzerland, you are advised to talk with your bank to find out what regulations apply in your case and what options best meet your needs.