On 28 November 2024, on the eve of the expiry of Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEP), Minister Leon Schreiber (Minister) extended the validity of all ZEP’s for an additional period of 12 months until 28 November 2025. The purpose of this extension is to allow the Minister to comply with the duties placed on him by the High Court in Helen Suzman Foundation and Another v Minister of Home Affairs and Others [2023] ZAGPPHC 490 to consult with affected parties on the future of the special dispensation. During the extended period of 12 months:
· No ZEP holder may be arrested, ordered to depart South Africa or be detained for purposes of deportation;
· ZEP holders are allowed to enter and depart from South Africa in terms of section 9 of the Immigration Act 13 of 2002; and
· No ZEP holder shall be required to produce a valid exemption certificate, visa or authorisation letter to remain in South Africa when applying for any category of visa to temporarily sojourn in South Africa.
This is undoubtedly a welcome announcement for all ZEP holders, who may now continue to reside and work in South Africa until 28 November 2025.
Written by T York and M Nketu
