South Africa: Process and Document Requirements Released for Extension of Exemption Permits for Nationals of Zimbabwe and Lesotho

The Minister of Home Affairs announced the application process for nationals of Zimbabwe and Lesotho whose permits will expire on June 30, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. Although authorities have automatically extended their permits until November 29, 2025, they must still apply for the new permit following the newly released process. Applications must be made online through the VFS Global platform, where the individual must complete the application, pay the prescribed service fee and book an appointment at any of the VFS Global offices in South Africa. Applicants must include the following documents with their application: a signed and completed online form for the exemption permit; an original passport, valid for at least 120 calendar days past the date of the application’s submission or proof that they have applied for a new passport if their passport has expired; proof of employment (if applicable); proof of business registration with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission and the South African Revenue Services (if applicable); proof of registration with a relevant learning institution (if applicable); a certified copy of their current exemption permit; a full set of fingerprints; proof of the address of the applicant; and, for a child’s application, a certified record of being born in South Africa.