For the first time in the country’s history, MEETS offers a secure and streamlined channel to process high-volume visa applications within short timeframes. (Photo: Unsplash)
The Department of Home Affairs has announced a groundbreaking new initiative that promises to cement South Africa’s status as a world-class destination for major international events.
The so-called Meetings, Exhibitions, Events and Tourism scheme (MEETS) is a far-reaching visa reform specifically designed to remove the administrative red tape for large groups of travellers.
For the first time in the country’s history, MEETS offers a secure and streamlined channel to process high-volume visa applications within short timeframes. This system is directly linked to international conferences, exhibitions, sports tournaments and major cultural or entertainment events that are presented on South African soil.
By making use of advanced technological reform, the department aims to ensure that South Africa’s visa system is ready when the country is chosen as host for international events. The focus now shifts from fragmented processes and uncertainty to a modern, online system that is specifically adapted to the demands of the events sector.
(Photo: Reint Dykema)
Cooperation with the private sector
Local event organizers with a proven track record in the industry are now invited to indicate their interest in becoming part of this scheme. According to the department, accredited organizers will sign a formal memorandum of agreement with the Department of Internal Affairs to regulate the participation in and management of the scheme. Those interested can check the necessary criteria to qualify on the department’s website.
This initiative comes at a critical time, as South Africa regularly hosts major events such as the Mining Indaba, world cup tournaments and major music concerts. Such events often require large teams, delegates, artists and technical staff to travel simultaneously and within tight deadlines.
Domestic affairs as an economic driver
Dr. Leon Schreiber, Minister of the Interior, believes that this step will profoundly change the department’s role in the economy. He says the fast pace at which international events take place requires that host countries must be able to respond just as quickly.
(File photo: Chris DELMAS/AFP)
“The launch of MEETS marks another crucial step in our journey of digital transformation. By modernizing our visa system, we are positioning the Department of Home Affairs as a catalyst for economic growth that supports tourism and investment and enables job creation.
“The international events industry is a powerful driver of growth, and MEETS ensures that our visa regime matches South Africa’s ambition to host world-class international events,” says Schreiber.
Competitive advantage for SA
According to Schreiber, the country already has the necessary infrastructure and attraction, but the visa system had to be adjusted to serve as an asset rather than an obstacle. The aim is to make the visa process a competitive advantage that sets South Africa apart from other destinations.
“South Africa already has the infrastructure and global appeal to host outstanding international events. With MEETS, we are making sure that our visa system reinforces this advantage by attracting more conferences, exhibitions, sports tournaments and cultural gatherings to the country – thereby driving job creation and economic growth.”