This week brings positive news for the 178,000 Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) holders currently residing in South Africa. Minister of Home Affairs Leon Schreiber has announced a new technical directive aimed at accelerating the processing of work permit applications for ZEP holders, addressing long-standing concerns about their status and future in the country.
The announcement follows mounting anxiety among ZEP holders and their employers about the expiration of their permits in 2025. In response, many have started applying for regular work permits to secure their status. To ease this process, the South African Home Affairs Ministry had previously introduced a waiver in 2022, allowing ZEP holders to apply for mainstream work visas without needing certification from the Department of Labour or the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
However, a technical oversight meant that the waiver for SAQA certification was not communicated effectively to ZEP holders, creating confusion and delays. The new directive issued by Minister Schreiber corrects this issue, ensuring that ZEP holders can now benefit fully from the waiver. Schreiber expressed hope that this will significantly accelerate the processing of applications, stating, “That will hopefully unlock a lot of people whose applications have not been processed.”
In addition to this, Minister Schreiber emphasized the need for proper consultation regarding the future of ZEP permits. A previous Constitutional Court ruling highlighted the importance of engaging with affected parties before making decisions. To address this, Schreiber announced plans to reestablish the Immigration Advisory Board and conduct broader consultations with the public. “We need to understand how we transition those who hold the permit into the mainstream system and enable them to apply for visas,” he said.
This move aims to provide clarity and support for ZEP holders as they navigate their transition into the regular visa system, ensuring that their contributions and presence in South Africa are recognized and supported.
In other news – Zimbabwe to host Miss Universe 2023 event
Miss Universe 2023, Sheynnis Palacios, is set to embark on a highly anticipated visit to Zimbabwe, as confirmed by Tendai Hunda, the license holder for Miss Universe Zimbabwe. Palacios, who made history as the first Nicaraguan to win the prestigious Miss Universe title, will arrive at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport on Monday afternoon.
The visit, organized in partnership with Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, is part of Palacios’ international tour following her crowning achievement in San Salvador, El Salvador. Read More
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