Any foreigner who wishes to enter South Africa must comply with the current laws of the country. A visa is a document that may be granted to an individual who wants to stay in the country for a period of time. The first thing to know is that you must be in possession of a valid visa before attempting to enter the country. Anyone who does not have a visa will not be allowed to enter. The government will grant a visa based on a review of each individual application, which ensures that the proper checks have been completed so that the person is cleared for entry. A South Africa visa application cannot be filled out or submitted at the time of entry to the country. 

The visa application requires that person to have a current passport or other acceptable form of travel documentation. This is typically required for most countries, as the passport serves as a standardised travel identity document that allows you to re-enter your country when necessary. It also proves that you have been properly reviewed through your home country. Upon arrival in South Africa a temporary residence permit will be issued. It is this document and not the visa that will indicate the permitted length of stay in the country. Another important requirement for a South Africa visa application is that you show the proper return flight ticket. Finally, you must produce a yellow fever certificate if you travel through or begin your journey in the yellow fever belt of South America or Africa.