SARS announces new Biometric facial recognition for eFiling

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) has announced that new eFiling registrations for Personal Income Tax may now require facial recognition. Biometric facial recognition authentication is being introduced for all individuals who register for eFiling using a valid South African Identity Document.

This applies to the following:

• eFiling website
• SARS MobiApp
• SARS Self-Service Kiosks:

The system will provide instructions e.g. required background setting, removal of headgear and glasses, facial position and distance from the camera. Online guidance will also be provided to help users capture clear photos for authentication.

To register using the eFiling website or SARS MobiApp, a computer (laptop or desktop)  or cellphone, with a camera is required. Individuals who do not have access to such a device with a camera can book an appointment for a SARS official to assist with the eFiling registration.

The existing eFiling registration, authentication and manual verification process will still apply to non-South African citizens.

For more information, click below to access the following guides:

• How to Register for eFiling and Manage Your User Profile
• How to register for the use of the SARS MobiApp

Melessia Naidoo

Head: Finance

References

South African Revenue Service. (2024). SARS is keeping your eFiling and tax information safe with biometrics | South African Revenue Service. [online] Available at: https://www.sars.gov.za/latest-news/sars-is-keeping-your-efiling-and-tax-information-safe-with-biometrics/ [Accessed 18 Nov. 2024].