Meetings, Events, Exhibitions and Tourism Scheme (Meets) Visa Scheme

In a critical step to reform the visa system and position the Department as an economic enabler by supercharging job creation in the Meetings, Events, Exhibitions and Tourism Scheme (MEETS) sector, Home Affairs invites Domestic Event Organisers with proven experience in this sector to submit an expression of interest for admission to the MEETS visa scheme, subject to the qualifying criteria.

South Africa has become an ideal location for international conferences, conventions, trade shows and symposiums. With its world-class event venues, quality accommodations, state-of-the-art conference facilities, and natural beauty, South Africa continues to draw attention as a business events destination.

Participation in international platforms not only facilitates networking and collaborations but also opens doors to new markets and business ventures for South African event organisers and venue providers.

International visitors to international events hosted in South Africa require visas if they are not from visa-exempt countries.

Through the MEETS visa scheme, the Department aims to put in place a visa regime that will attract and promote South Africa as a preferred destination for international arts, culture, sports, and entertainment events within the MEETS sector.

The MEETS visa scheme will allow accredited and reputable event organisers to facilitate and submit group visa applications, subject to the risk profile of the delegates, through a secure digital platform. The accreditation will be regulated through a formal Memorandum of Agreement with the Department, which will regulate and prescribe reduced visa requirements.

To qualify for membership to the MEETS visa scheme, a domestic event organiser, operator, business, or organisation needs to demonstrate that it adheres to the regulatory requirements in the MEETS sector, that it promotes the employment of South Africans and that it has sufficient administrative capacity to facilitate group visa applications for the event.