Online Reporter
Thupeyo Muleya
Beitbridge Bureau
SOUTH AFRICA’s Ministry of Home Affairs has further extended the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) to 2027.
Some of the permits were due to expire at the end of November this year.
Home Affairs Minister Dr Leon Schreiber made the announcement on Tuesday.
Under the new arrangements, which fall under the immigration directive no 21 of 2025, the validity of the permits has been extended to May 28, 2027.
He said the permits had been extended in terms of South Africa’s immigration law.
“I have decided to extend the validity of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP) until May 28, 2027,” said the Minister.
“The Immigration Advisory Board (IAB) was appointed by me with effect from 1 April 2025.”
The South African government is still discussing the long-term solution for ZEP permit holders.
“The IAB has met on several occasions and deliberated amongst themselves on the immediate future of long-term solutions for holders of ZEP permits,” said the minister.
“Critical stakeholders will need to be part of the consultation process.
“Pending the conclusion of consultations, I direct that the existing ZEP shall be deemed to remain valid for an additional (18) eighteen months after the current expiry date of November 28, 2025”.
Ends
