South Africa launches MEETS visa to ease travel for event delegates

South Africa introduced the MEETS visa in February 2026 to simplify entry for conference delegates, digital nomads, and short-term travelers. The program allows accredited event organizers to submit group visa applications digitally, promising faster processing and reduced bureaucracy. Designed for short-term stays, it targets international delegates attending meetings, events, exhibitions, and tourism activities. Organizers must meet strict criteria including 500+ delegates in two years, online registration 60 days pre-event, and compliance with safety regulations. The initiative aims to position South Africa as Africa's top events hub, addressing visa bottlenecks that previously deterred travelers. However, the digital platform launch is pending, and the 500-delegate threshold may exclude smaller events. While the MEETS visa could transform South Africa's appeal for global workers, its success depends on timely implementation.

SOURCE: https://techcabal.com/2026/03/07/south-africa-meets-visa/