Online Reporter
JOHANNESBURG. – South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has introduced a landmark digital visa system designed to strengthen the country’s appeal as a leading destination for international film and creative projects.
The initiative, first outlined earlier this year by the Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, marks the country’s most significant creative-sector visa reform to date. For the first time, a fully digital platform will handle applications from foreign film and creative enterprises, sharply reducing administrative barriers and allowing secure, accelerated processing. The model builds on South Africa’s broader digital governance reforms, which include earlier trusted-partner programmes.
A dedicated governance and adjudication team will oversee the scheme to ensure a consistent and reliable service. This team will manage application assessments, coordinate with industry stakeholders, and handle enquiries through official communication channels.
Schreiber described the launch of the initiative as a milestone in South Africa’s digital transformation, emphasising the government’s focus on economic growth and job creation. He noted that the creative sector stands to gain significantly from modernised systems that support rapid decision-making and better service delivery, complementing other recent reforms such as the Electronic Travel Authorisation.
From January to September 2025, South Africa welcomed 7 634 261 international tourists, an increase of 1 108 222 visitors compared to the same period last year, setting a new record for arrivals to the country.
Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille highlighted that these figures not only confirmed the recovery of the tourism sector, but also its contribution to the nation’s economic growth.
“Tourism is proving to be a catalyst for economic growth and development. The industry is creating jobs, stimulating investment, and revitalising local economies,” said the South African official.
In September 2025, the country hosted 846,367 tourists, marking a 26.9 percent increase compared to September 2024, reflecting growing global confidence in South Africa as a tourist destination. –tvbrics.com
