South Africa's new digital visa initiatives: a game-changer for film and tourism
Image: Ayanda Ndamane Independent Newspapers
The Department of Home Affairs is preparing to introduce two new visa categories under the electronic travel authorisation (ETA) visa framework.
Dr Leon Schreiber, the Minister of Home Affairs, announced these initiatives as part of the department's efforts to transform into an economic enabler.
'Building on the extraordinary success of the trusted tour operator scheme and to support the pending rollout of the ETA, we are launching two further digital visa initiatives,' Schreiber stated.
The first initiative is called STAGES, which stands for Screening Talent and Global Entertainment Scheme.
This programme aims to simplify visa access for film production companies by eliminating outdated, paper-based systems.
A notable example of the need for this reform is a recent incident where a major Netflix production from Mexico was lost due to visa delays, costing South Africa an estimated $400 million in potential income.
With STAGES, companies will be able to apply through a digital online portal, receive visa decisions within hours, and will no longer need to visit missions abroad in person.
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The second initiative is named MEETS, which stands for Meetings, Events, Exhibitions and Tourism Scheme.
South Africa is renowned for its beautiful destinations and world-class events; yet outdated visa systems have often frustrated international event organisers.
Through MEETS, visa applications for international attendees at major conferences, sporting events, exhibitions, and other events will be processed entirely online, ensuring rapid turnaround times.
Schreiber noted that this initiative will support significant upcoming events, such as the SA20 cricket tournament and the World Rugby Sevens, allowing global talent to arrive without delay and injecting further growth into the economy.
"Together, STAGES and MEETS are set to position South Africa as a leading destination for film, tourism, sports, arts, culture, and events - sectors with enormous potential for growth and job creation," said Schreiber.
In our next phase of turning Home Affairs into an economic enabler, I am delighted to announce two new pioneering digital visa schemes: STAGES (Screen Talent and Global Entertainment Scheme) will create a seamless digital visa system for the film industry, and MEETS (Meetings,… pic.twitter.com/U2f4A6R6tW — Leon Schreiber (@Leon_Schreib) July 8, 2025
The Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (Fedhasa) has applauded the introduction of these new visa categories.
'It is refreshing and heartwarming to witness a Minister who clearly understands how our outdated visa regime has been costing South Africa dearly,' said Rosemary Anderson, national chairperson of Fedhasa.
'The STAGES and MEETS visa categories are not just policy reforms; they are powerful economic enablers that signal to the world that South Africa is truly open for business.'
Anderson highlighted that globally, the economic potential of being "film-friendly" is immense.
Canada has seen enormous benefits from its streamlined visa processes and incentives for filmmakers, generating over C$11.3 billion (R155 billion) in direct film and TV production spending in 2022 alone.
Similarly, Georgia has experienced a 250% increase in foreign film productions over five years, thanks in part to its efficient visa and incentive programmes.
'South Africa, with its stunning locations and skilled crews, is exceptionally well-placed to emulate this success,' Anderson explained.
'In 2019/2020, our film sector contributed R7.2 billion to the economy - a figure that has since declined due to both Covid-19 and administrative delays. These new reforms give us every reason to believe we can not only recover but soar.'
She also said that the country's rich culture, world-class facilities, and natural beauty can position us as a premier MICE destination, but only if the red tape is removed.
'The MEETS visa is a major stride in that direction.'
She noted that job creation, economic growth, and global competitiveness hinge on practical, fast, and business-friendly policies.
'With STAGES and MEETS, South Africa sends a clear and confident message to the world: we are ready, we are open, and we are welcoming the world to our shores to do business, create jobs, and tell our stories,' said Anderson.
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