The 2025 tax filing season in South Africa is officially open, from 21 July to 20 October 2025, with extended filing until 19 January 2026 for provisional taxpayers and trusts.

Auto Assessments

Over 5.8 million taxpayers have already received Auto Assessments, an increase from five million last year. Worryingly, 99.6% required zero edits, and over R10.6 billion in refunds were paid within 72 hours.

The South African Revenue Service (SARS) automatically calculates these using employer, investment, and medical aid data, embodying their “make tax just happen” philosophy. If there are no changes to report, no action required is required. However, if there's missing or incorrect information, updates can be made via eFiling or the SARS MobiApp 

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Digital Access is Driving Efficiency

SARS’s continued push for digital transformation is working with over 10.2 million unique users have logged in across their platforms since July. Notable digital interactions include:

  • 1.1 million via the SARS Online Query System
  • 707,000 via WhatsApp
  • 290,000 via the Lwazi chatbot

And most importantly, assessment outcomes are issued in under 5 seconds when submitted online.

Deadlines to Mark

Taxpayer Type Filing Window
Non-Auto Assessed Individuals 

21 July – 20 October 2025

Provisional Taxpayers 

21 July 2025 – 19 January 2026

What should I do?

  1. Review your auto-assessment carefully. If correct—no further action needed.
  2. Update via eFiling or the MobiApp if changes are required.
  3. Submit by the deadline to avoid penalties.
  4. Use Online Support to avoid branch visits:
    • eFiling or SARS MobiApp
    • Online Query System, WhatsApp, or AI Virtual Assistant
    • Booking is essential if a branch visit becomes necessary.

Scams - Stay Alert

SARS reminds users that it will never send you links asking for personal details. Always protect your eFiling credentials. Any scam attempts should be reported to phishing@sars.gov.za or find out more on the https://www.sars.gov.za/ website.

South Africa Insights

SARS continues to deliver on its “tax just happens” promise through streamlined auto assessments and increasingly sophisticated digital services. This year’s filing season demonstrates the power of digital accessibility, speed, and compliance-focused innovation helping you stay organised, informed, and ahead of any tax-related pressure.

Would you like help tailoring this guidance for global teams or custom insights on international mobility tax compliance?

South Africa - Global Insights

For further detailed guidance on payroll, employment law, and compliance in South Africa, visit our South Africa Global Insight guide on the activpayroll website. You can also explore broader regional updates and expertise in the EMEA Global Expertise web section. 

Next Steps

If you have any questions or need tailored advice, we encourage customers and potential clients to get in touch. Please complete our Contact Us form, and a member of our team will be happy to assist with your queries.

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