Zimbabwe and Lesotho Exemption Permits Extended
ZEP and LEP exemption permits, expiring 31 December 2023 and 28 June 2024, respectively, have been automatically extended to 29 November 2024, whilst applications will be opened for new exemption permits, which will be issued until 29 November 2025.
According to a press statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs on 1 December 2023, conditions of the permits will be substantially the same as before. The new permits will not be extendible, and holders will not be allowed to change over to mainstream visa categories or apply for permanent residence.
ZEP holders who have already applied for waivers or mainstream visas, can continue this route as planned.
Children of ZEP or LEP holders born in South Africa will have to be declared and registered under the regime.
Detailed directives are to be published on 4 December 2023.
For assistance and application support, reach out to the IMCOSA team.