This type of permit is governed by Section 11 of the Immigration Act read with Regulation 19 of the Act which regulates the technicalities in this category.
Section 11 provides that a visitors visa may be issued to a foreign national in respect of visits to South Africa for a maximum period of 90 days. Should a visitor wish to stay for a period longer than 90 days, an application for a renewal of the visa may be submitted to the Department of Home Affairs before the expiry of the initial 90-day period.
It is important to note that a visitors visa does not allow a holder to conduct work in South Africa, unless specifically authorized under Section 11(2) of the Act, which pertains to short-term work activities under specific conditions.