South Africa: Further Extension of Zimbabwean Exemption Permit to December 31, 2023

The South African government implemented a further six-month extension, until December 31, 2023, for Zimbabwean nationals who are holders of expired Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP) to remain in South Africa; the program was previously only extended until June 30, 2023. The extension is expected to allow Zimbabwean nationals additional time to apply for a visa or other waivers and comply with the South African Immigration Act. The extension allows these Zimbabwean nationals to work, study or live in South Africa until December 31, 2023. As a reminder, during the extension period, ZEP holders will not be arrested, deported, or detained for not having a valid permit; they will not be declared illegal; they will be allowed to enter and depart South Africa provided they comply with entry and departure requirements; and they will not be required to provide an authorization letter (showing good cause for the expiration of their permit or waiver) to remain in South Africa or to apply for any other visa within South Africa.