South Africa Extends Zimbabwean Exemption Permits for Another Year

The South African government has extended Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs) for another year, until 28 November 2025.

The decision, announced by Home Affairs Minister Dr L A Schreiber, comes after a Gauteng High Court ruling that required the government to consult with ZEP holders and stakeholders on the future of the permits.

“I, Dr L. A. Schreiber, MP, Minister of Home Affairs, with the powers bestowed upon me in terms of section 31(2)(b) of the Immigration Act, (“Immigration Act”) have decided to extend the validity of the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (“ZEP”) until 28 November 2025 in order for me to fulfil the duty placed on me by the Gauteng High Court to consult the affected ZEP holders and all other stakeholders on the future of the current dispensation,” the Minister said in a statement.

The extension provides temporary relief for an estimated 178,000 Zimbabweans living in South Africa under the ZEP programme. Many Zimbabweans have sought refuge in South Africa due to economic and political challenges in their home country. It is estimated that up to 3 million Zimbabweans currently live in South Africa.

The permits were initially set to expire in June 2023 but were granted a six-month extension to allow holders to apply for alternative visas. However, many ZEP holders were unable to secure other visas within that timeframe.

The Minister stated that the Immigration Advisory Board (IAB) is being reactivated to consider the future of the ZEP programme and ensure compliance with the High Court order.

During the extension period, ZEP holders will not face arrest or deportation for lack of valid permits and will be allowed to enter and exit South Africa. They will also be eligible to apply for other visas without needing to produce valid exemption certificates.

The Minister’s directive provides a temporary reprieve for Zimbabwean nationals living in South Africa while the government consults on a long-term solution for ZEP holders.