South Africa Extends Zimbabwe Exemption Permits with Assurances of Non-Arrest
Farai D Hove | ZimEye | Cape Town, South Africa — In a significant development, the South African government has announced the extension of Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs) until November 28, 2025. In a directive issued by Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. L.A. Schreiber, ZEP holders were assured that no arrests or deportations would occur during this period.
This decision comes as part of the government’s compliance with a Gauteng High Court order to consult ZEP holders and other stakeholders regarding the future of the permit system. The extension grants ZEP holders an additional 12 months of validity and introduces specific safeguards to protect them from legal action based on their immigration status.
Key Assurances from the Government
In the directive, the South African government outlined the following critical protections for ZEP holders:
1. No Arrests or Deportations: ZEP holders cannot be arrested, detained, deported, or ordered to leave the country under Section 34 of the Immigration Act for failing to hold a valid exemption certificate.
2. Entry and Exit Allowed: Holders of exemption certificates are permitted to enter or depart South Africa under Section 9 of the Immigration Act, provided all other entry and departure requirements are met.
3. No Additional Documentation Required: ZEP holders are not obligated to present valid exemption certificates, visas, or authorization letters when applying for other temporary visas under Section 10(2) of the Immigration Act.
Next Steps
The directive also highlights the reactivation of the Immigration Advisory Board (IAB), tasked with advising on the implementation of the High Court order and the long-term future of the ZEP program. This process will allow for further consultations and input from affected individuals and organizations.
Dr. Schreiber emphasized the government’s commitment to following due process and ensuring fair treatment for ZEP holders while the consultations proceed.
Background
The ZEP program has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s immigration policy, allowing thousands of Zimbabweans to live, work, and study in the country. However, its future has been under review, prompting uncertainty and concern among permit holders. This extension and the accompanying guarantees provide a temporary reprieve for ZEP holders.
This decision marks a significant step in addressing the concerns of ZEP holders while ensuring compliance with South African legal and administrative processes. Further updates are expected as the government continues its consultations.