South Africa: Meetings, Events, Exhibitions and Tourism Scheme Expression of Interest Period Now Open

The Department of Home Affairs has introduced a new visa program called the Meetings, Events, Exhibitions and Tourism Scheme (MEETS), to attract and promote entertainment, arts and culture and sports event organizers seeking to host events in South Africa. To apply under MEETS, eligible event organizers must submit an Expression of Interest along with the supporting documentation specified in the selection criteria. The MEETS Expression of Interest does not have a closing date. However, event organizers are required to submit their Expression of Interest and register their event in South Africa at least four months before the event date. Following submission of the Expression of Interest, applicants will be notified of the outcome within 60 days. Although the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) has not yet launched the MEETS online platform, successful applicants will, once the platform becomes operational, be required to pay a visa processing fee for each individual from their entity entering South Africa through the platform. In the interim, interested applicants may obtain additional information through the DHA website or by emailing [email protected]. 

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.