To open a bank account in South Africa, you typically need to provide certain documents, including a valid passport, proof of residence (such as a utility bill), and proof of income.

If you have a passport without a permit in South Africa, it may be more difficult to open a bank account as many banks may require additional documentation to verify your identity and immigration status. It's best to check with individual banks to see what their specific requirements are.

You may also want to consider obtaining the necessary permits or visas to legally reside in South Africa, as this can make it easier to open a bank account and access other services.

To open a bank account in South Africa, you will typically need to visit a bank branch in person and provide the required documents. Some banks also allow you to open an account online or through their mobile app, but you will still need to provide the necessary documentation.

In addition to a valid passport and proof of residence, banks may also require proof of income such as payslips or bank statements. If you don't have a steady income, some banks may allow you to open a basic savings account with a minimum deposit.

If you are a foreign national without a valid permit in South Africa, some banks may require additional documentation to verify your identity and immigration status. For example, you may need to provide a copy of your visa or work permit. It's best to check with the bank to see what their specific requirements are.

Once you have provided all the necessary documentation, the bank will typically conduct a credit check to assess your creditworthiness. If you have a good credit history, you may be approved for a full-service bank account with access to a range of banking products and services. If you have a poor credit history or no credit history at all, you may only be eligible for a basic savings account with limited features.

Overall, opening a bank account in South Africa can be a relatively straightforward process if you have the necessary documentation and meet the bank's eligibility criteria.