PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA – Home Affairs Minister Dr. Aaron Motsoaledi has announced that the validity of the exemption permits for Lesotho and Zimbabwean nationals has been extended to December 31, 2024.
“I call upon all affected Lesotho and Zimbabwean nationals to make use of the window of opportunity to apply for new exemption permits through VFS Global,” Motsoaledi said.
The Minister explained that the new exemption permits will be valid for two years and will not be renewable. Holders of the new permits will be entitled to work, seek employment, and conduct business in South Africa. They will also be allowed freedom of movement between their home countries and South Africa.
In addition, the Minister has also granted exemptions to approximately 178 000 Zimbabwean nationals ( #ZEP ) for a period of two years. Exemption permits will not be renewable #SABCNews pic.twitter.com/r9NAPIUdpL
— Canny Maphanga (@CannyMaphanga) December 1, 2023“A holder of the exemption permit will not be entitled to apply for permanent residence in South Africa,” Motsoaledi said.
The Minister also announced that a dedicated team will be set up to deal with the applications for new exemption permits. VFS Global has also been instructed to fast-track the application process.
The extension of the exemption permits is a welcome relief for many Lesotho and Zimbabwean nationals living in South Africa. The permits were originally due to expire on December 31, 2023, but the government has decided to extend them for an additional two years in order to give people more time to regularize their status in the country.
Eligibility for New Exemption Permits
To be eligible for a new exemption permit, Lesotho and Zimbabwean nationals must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen of Lesotho or Zimbabwe
- Be currently residing in South Africa
- Be in possession of a valid passport
- Have not been convicted of a serious crime
- Have not been declared undesirable
Application Process
Applications for new exemption permits can be submitted through VFS Global. The application fee is R1,400.
Additional Information
For more information on the extension of the exemption permits, please visit the website of the Department of Home Affairs.