Home Affairs launches digital visa system to fast-track major events

The Department of Home Affairs has launched a digital visa system aimed at speeding up applications for large groups attending major international events in South Africa.

The Meetings, Exhibitions, Events and Tourism Scheme (Meets) is designed to streamline visa processing for high-volume, time-sensitive applications linked to conferences, exhibitions, sporting tournaments and cultural events.

The platform introduces a coordinated online process that allows event organisers to submit group applications, reducing delays and administrative bottlenecks.

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Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber said the system is intended to improve efficiency while maintaining security.

“By cutting red tape and accelerating secure visa processing through technological reform, Meets ensures that when the world chooses South Africa as a host, our visa system is ready,” he said.

He added that the initiative is expected to help attract more global events, supporting tourism, investment and job creation.

South Africa regularly hosts large-scale events, from international trade shows to major sporting tournaments, where participants and support teams often need to travel within tight timeframes.

Through the Meets platform, approved organisers will be able to submit applications in bulk, enabling faster turnaround times for large delegations.

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Schreiber said the system forms part of the department’s broader digital transformation, positioning visa processing as a key enabler of economic growth.

Event organisers with a proven track record can apply to join the programme, subject to qualifying criteria. Successful applicants will enter into formal agreements with the department to participate in the scheme.