Ithabeleng Qhasho
BASOTHO motorists have raised concerns over the implementation of a Temporary Importation Declaration requirement for motor vehicles entering South Africa, describing the process as confusing and inconvenient.
The concerns follow a recent announcement by the South African Revenue Service (SARS), which now requires vehicles from Southern African Customs Union (SACU) countries to be declared for temporary importation before or upon entry into South Africa.
A Maseru-based transport trader, who requested anonymity, said his first encounter with the new system was frustrating and unclear.
“As a trader, I am confused because we operate several business vehicles. Does each driver need an affidavit from the company declaring them and the vehicle? Does this mean we must go to the police station every time a car crosses the border?” he asked.
He said authorities must clarify how long such affidavits remain valid.
Frequent traveller, Thakabanna Ranthimo, said there was need for proper clarification on the new system.
“When there is change, people are likely to resist it. That is why it must be clearly communicated, leaving no loopholes. Otherwise, it will only increase resistance,” he said.
Another traveller, Tumelo Thamae, said he was initially turned back at the border after attempting to register his vehicle , albeit incorrectly.
“I didn’t know that one cannot register without actually crossing. I was sent back home. It was only later that I understood the declaration works like a ‘vehicle passport’ processed at the border, not beforehand,” he said.
Mr Thamae also questioned how the system applies to shared family vehicles.
“If a car is registered under my spouse’s name and I am driving it, what happens in that situation?” he asked.
Trader, Mosalebane Kulehile, said frequent changes at South African border posts continue to frustrate Basotho.
“There are always changes on the South African side. As a businessperson, I need to work, but this paperwork is time-consuming,” Mr Kulehile said.
He also raised concerns about frequent cross-border travellers.
“Imagine someone who has a patient in South Africa or works in Ladybrand. Do they have to go through this process every day? I am really not happy with this declaration thing,” he added.
However, SARS has moved to clarify the new requirements amid growing concern, particularly in the Free State province, including Bloemfontein and surrounding areas.
The authority said that from 1 June 2026, all foreign-registered vehicles entering South Africa—including those from Lesotho and other SACU member states—must be declared for temporary importation in line with the Customs and Excise Act of 1964.
SARS said the measure aligns with international customs practices, which require all goods, including vehicles, to be declared upon entry or exit.
To simplify the process, SARS has introduced an online Traveller Declaration System, allowing motorists to pre-declare their vehicles and obtain a reference number for use at border posts. Those unable to access the system online will be assisted at ports of entry.
Importantly, the temporary import permit will be valid for six months and allow multiple crossings within that period. This means frequent travellers—such as workers, traders, students and patients—will not need to reapply each time they cross the border.
SARS also said businesses operating multiple vehicles may appoint a representative to handle declarations. However, each vehicle must have its own permit, supported by relevant documentation and affidavits listing authorised drivers.
For families, including spouses sharing vehicles, each vehicle must still be declared separately, with proof of ownership or relationship available if required.
The agency further confirmed there is no fee for registering a foreign vehicle or submitting the declaration.
SARS said the changes form part of a broader customs modernisation programme aimed at improving border management while facilitating legitimate travel and trade. Members of the public are encouraged to rely on official platforms for accurate information.
Meanwhile, Revenue Services Lesotho (RSL) also moved to allay fears among Basotho.
Speaking at a press conference in Maseru on Thursday, Acting Commissioner General Rakokoana Makoa, said RSL, in partnership with SARS, will roll out nationwide awareness campaigns to educate the public.
“We do not want to see businesses suffering as a result of this process. Where challenges arise, we will engage our counterparts and negotiate on behalf of Basotho,” he said.
Mr Makoa urged Basotho not to misinterpret the requirement as an attempt to restrict cross-border movement.
“Under the Bi-National Commission, there is a strong focus on trade facilitation to ensure smooth movement of goods and services. We are working together to ensure business operations are not disrupted,” Mr Makoa said.
He encouraged compliance, warning that failure to adhere to the new rules could have wider implications.
“This is not unique to Lesotho. The declaration of imported vehicles has long been standard practice in South Africa and across the SADC region. SACU countries were previously exempt, but with the changes now in effect, countries such as Lesotho, Eswatini, Namibia and Botswana must also comply,” he said.