Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber has extended the validity of Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEP) until 28 November 2025. This follows a Gauteng High Court ruling that declared the termination of ZEPs unlawful.

Key highlights:

• ZEP holders are protected from deportation and undesirable status during this period.
• They can apply for other visa categories without needing a valid exemption certificate.
• The Immigration Advisory Board will oversee the consultation process for a fair resolution.

This update relieves approximately 178,000 ZEP holders, securing their legal status in South Africa.