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ZEP Holders in South Africa Face Crucial Deadline for Legal Status Extension

Published November 29, 2024
2 months ago

As the deadline of November 29, 2024, approaches, numerous Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) holders in South Africa are faced with another critical juncture regarding their legal status. This date marks the final opportunity to secure a one-year exemption permit, extending their stay legally until November 29, 2025.





Marisa Jacobs, Managing Director at Xpatweb, points out that this is the final call for those who did not switch from a ZEP to a General Work visa during the prior waiver application period. Post-deadline, the remaining route involves applying under a new, stricter points-based system, with applications mandatory to be filed in Zimbabwe.


The discomfort among ZEP holders is partly due to the difficulty in securing appointments with VFS Global, the administrative partner handling the submissions. This situation was raised during a webinar by Xpatweb, underscoring the urgency and the challenges faced by about 178,000 Zimbabweans residing in South Africa, significantly affected after the unexpected termination of the ZEP in 2022 by Dr Aaron Motsoaledi, the then Minister of Home Affairs.


The decision to terminate the ZEP led to several legal battles, eventually reaching the Supreme Court of Appeal and the Constitutional Court, where the termination was ruled unlawful in June 2023. Despite this victory, the future for those who haven't secured a waiver or new visa remains precarious.


Benjamin van Zyl, an immigration consultant at Xpatweb, cautions that failing to meet the November 29 deadline could lead to penalties, including a prohibition from re-entering South Africa ranging from one to five years, potential arrest, and deportation.


Those who have acted within deadlines for waivers or alternate visas have some relief, as their legal status remains protected while awaiting application outcomes. To date, protective measures cover 78,000 ZEP-holders who secured waivers and another 10,427 who applied for other visas.


The process for obtaining extensions and the transition toward applying under a new legislation entails a significant shift. Dr Leon Schreiber, the recently appointed Minister of Home Affairs, has introduced a digital system to streamline the outcomes of visa and waiver applications, a relief to many amidst the administrative backlog.


As we approach the deadline, the Department of Home Affairs processed over 60,000 outstanding applications by the end of August, a substantial effort following delays dating back to 2022. ZEP holders pending waiver approvals are advised to commence their submissions for General Work visas as advised by Xpatweb.


Ultimately, while the upcoming deadline presents a daunting challenge, it also offers a path forward for Zimbabwean nationals to secure their future in South Africa legitimately. Compliance with the new system, despite its rigor, is crucial for those aiming to continue their lives without legal hindrance in South Africa.


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