Hospitality industry says new visa schemes set to boost film and meetings sectors

THE Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa (Fedhasa) has heralded a transformative move as two innovative visa categories, specifically tailored for the film and meetings sectors, are set to take effect.

- SIPHELELE DLUDLA

This comes after the Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, on Wednesday announced the launch of two further digital visa initiatives in a bid to support the rollout of the pending Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, and building on the success of the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS).

The Screen Talent and Global Entertainment Scheme (STAGES) will simplify visa access for film production companies as the outdated and paper-based systems hinder the industry.

"In just one example, a major Netflix production from Mexico was lost due to visa delays, costing South Africa an estimated R400 million in lost income," Schreiber said.

"But thanks to STAGES, companies will now be able to apply via a dedicated online portal, receive visa decisions within hours, and will no longer be required to visit missions in-person abroad."

The Meetings, Events, Exhibitions and Tourism Scheme (MEETS) will see visa applications for international attendees at major conferences, sporting events, exhibitions and other international events processed entirely online, with rapid turnaround times.