Visa on Arrival 101: Stress-Free Travel for South Africans

You’ve booked the flights. Group chat’s buzzing. Your bags are mentally packed. But then someone hits you with: “Wait, do we need a visa?” If you’re plotting your next escape – whether it’s a romantic getaway, solo adventure or trip with your crew – this one’s for you. 

Let’s talk visa on arrival: what it is, how it works, and why it might be your new travel BFF. 

What is a visa on arrival? 

A visa on arrival (VoA) is exactly what it sounds like: instead of applying for a visa before leaving South Africa, you get it when you land at your destination airport. You fill in a form, pay a fee, and get your passport stamped right then and there. 

No consulates. No long lead times. No stress (well, very little). 

What’s needed for a visa on arrival? 

While each country may tweak the details slightly, here’s what most places expect you to have in hand: 

• A valid passport (at least 6 months before expiry, with blank pages) 
• Return or onward flight confirmation 
• Accommodation details (hotel booking or similar) 
• Proof of funds (a recent bank statement to show you can support yourself during your trip) 
• Two passport photos (some countries ask for these) 
• Travel insurance (some countries need proof of this) 

Having this ready makes the process so much smoother. Think of it like airport admin – the faster you fill it in, the faster you hit the beach/bar/market. 

Where can South Africans get a visa on arrival?  

If you’re keen to skip the long visa application process, here are a few of the easiest places South Africans can travel to with visa on arrival: 

1. Indonesia 

2. Maldives 

3. Qatar 

4. Ethiopia 

5. Cambodia 

6. Laos 

7. Egypt 

8. Madagascar 

9. Sri Lanka 

10. Saudi Arabia 

Not sure which destination is right for you? Chat with us to find out more about visa on arrival spots and let’s help you plan your next getaway. 

What are the benefits of visa on arrival? 

Here’s why travellers love it: 

• Less planning: You don’t need to apply weeks in advance 
• More flexibility: Ideal for spontaneous trips 
• Shorter queues than consulate visits: no appointments needed 
• Cheaper than some embassy visa processes 

If your destination offers visa on arrival and you’ve got your travel documents lined up, it’s a no-brainer. 

Can a visa on arrival be rejected? 

Yes, but it’s unusual – especially if you’re travelling for tourism and have your basics covered. Rejections usually happen when travellers overlook small details, like a passport that’s too close to expiring, or give inconsistent information on their forms. 

Some countries may also flag travellers with incomplete bookings or unclear travel plans, so it’s worth arriving with a clear itinerary and a confident attitude. 

Bottom line? If you look like you’ve planned your trip properly and can support yourself while you’re there, you’re unlikely to run into issues. 

How long does it take to get a visa on arrival? 

It varies by destination and time of year. Some airports process it in as little as 10–20 minutes, while others may take longer during peak hours or holiday periods. 

Can I extend my visa on arrival if I decide to stay longer? 

In some countries, yes – but not all. Always check local immigration rules when you arrive or ask at the airport if extensions are allowed and how to apply. 

Do I still need travel insurance if I’m getting a visa on arrival? 

Some countries do ask for proof of travel insurance on arrival, while others don’t. Either way, it’s a smart move to have it, especially for medical emergencies, delays, or lost luggage. 

Ready to pack your bags? 

If you’re planning your next escape and want the easy route – with flights, hotels, transfers, and all the important travel advice included – book your package with us at Pentravel. 

We’ll help you figure out where you can go with a visa on arrival, what to pack, and how to keep the whole process hassle-free. 

Wherever you need to go, we’ll help get you there.