The Minister of the Department of Home Affairs (“DHA”) has extended the validity of the exemptions granted to all Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (“ZEP”) Holders in terms of Section 31(2)(b) of the Immigration Act until 28 May 2027.
Due to the need for additional engagement amongst stakeholders around a long-term solution for holders of ZEP permits, the DHA has granted a further 18-month extension of expired ZEP’s until 28 May 2027.
All expired ZEP holders, irrespective of any pending visa process, will benefit from this blanket extension of their immigration status in South Africa.
Accordingly, all impacted individuals may continue their authorised activities and cross South African borders without risk of being declared undesirable until 28 May 2027.
All Zimbabwean employees holding expired ZEP’s are legally authorised to continue working until 28 May 2027, unless they are issued with an alternative visa with a different validity prior to such date.
Furthermore, all Zimbabwean employees holding expired ZEP’s, may travel in and out of South Africa, until 28 May 2027, without being declared undesirable.
Should you have any queries, please contact your dedicated Vialto consultant, copying our Team Mailbox.
For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to your Vialto Partners point of contact, or alternatively:
Stephen Marlin
Territory Leader
Supriya Boodhena
Senior Manager
Natalie McLean
Manager
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