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The Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) is a permit issued by the South African government to Zimbabwean nationals, allowing them to live, work, and study in South Africa.
History of ZEP
The ZEP program was introduced in 2009 as a temporary measure to regularize the stay of Zimbabwean nationals in South Africa. The program was initially set to expire in 2010 but has been extended several times.
ZEP-holders are entitled to work, seek employment and conduct business in South Africa during the validity of the exemption permit. A holder of the exemption permit is allowed freedom of movement in and out of South Africa.
On 29 August this year, new DHA minister Schreiber instituted a new rule to deliver the outcomes of visa waiver applications digitally via email to applicants. In the first phase of the rollout, the outcome of waiver applications for ZEPs will be sent digitally.
“Over time, this digital-first approach will be extended to other applicants in the visa and permit regime. Starting today with ZEP holders and later, all applicants will conveniently receive digital waiver letters, in PDF format, through email,” the DHA said.
By the end of August, the DHA had processed more than 60,000 outstanding ZEP waiver applications, many of which dated back to 2022.
Jacobs noted that ZEP-holders who applied for a waiver to progress to a General Work visa and are awaiting the application’s processing can proceed with their submission for a General Work visa as soon as the waiver has been processed. The new Points-based system does not apply in these instances.
The gazette can be read below:
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a ZEP, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of Zimbabwe
- Have been living in South Africa since 2009
- Have a valid Zimbabwean passport
- Meet the requirements for the specific category of permit (work, study, business, etc.)
Application Process
The application process for a ZEP typically involves the following steps:
- Submission of Application: Applicants must submit their applications online or through a designated VFS Global application center.
- Required Documents: Applicants must provide the required documents, including a valid Zimbabwean passport, proof of residence in South Africa, and proof of employment or study.
- Biometric Data: Applicants must provide biometric data, including fingerprints.
- Payment of Fees: Applicants must pay the required application fee.
- Processing of Application: The application is processed, and the applicant is notified of the outcome.
Benefits of ZEP
Holders of a ZEP enjoy several benefits, including:
- Permission to Work: ZEP holders are allowed to work in South Africa.
- Permission to Study: ZEP holders are allowed to study in South Africa.
- Permission to Conduct Business: ZEP holders are allowed to conduct business in South Africa.
- Access to Healthcare: ZEP holders have access to public healthcare services in South Africa.
- Access to Education: ZEP holders have access to public education services in South Africa.
Challenges Faced by ZEP Holders
Despite the benefits, ZEP holders face several challenges, including:
- Uncertainty: The ZEP program has been extended several times, creating uncertainty for holders.
- Limited Job Opportunities: ZEP holders may face limited job opportunities due to their permit status.
- Difficulty Accessing Credit: ZEP holders may find it difficult to access credit due to their permit status.
- Limited Access to Government Services: ZEP holders may have limited access to government services, including social grants and housing.
Future of ZEP
The future of the ZEP program is uncertain. The South African government has announced plans to discontinue the program, but no official date has been set.
Conclusion
The Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) has provided a lifeline for many Zimbabwean nationals living in South Africa. However, the program’s uncertain future and the challenges faced by holders remain a concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP)?
A: The ZEP is a permit issued by the South African government to Zimbabwean nationals, allowing them to live, work, and study in South Africa.
Q: Who is eligible for a ZEP?
A: To be eligible for a ZEP, applicants must be citizens of Zimbabwe, have been living in South Africa since 2009, and meet the requirements for the specific category of permit.
Q: How do I apply for a ZEP?
A: The application process typically involves submitting an application online or through a designated VFS Global application center, providing required documents, and paying the application fee.
Q: What are the benefits of holding a ZEP?
A: ZEP holders enjoy several benefits, including permission to work, study, and conduct business in South Africa, as well as access to public healthcare and education services.
