Zimbabwean Exemption Permit Update: 62000 applicants complete permit renewal process so far

As of 4 November 2017, close to 62000 Zimbabweans have successfully completed the full permit renewal process for the ZEP programme, i.e. submission of application and required documents, and enrolment of biometrics.     
 
Earlier, on 15 September 2017, the initial online registration process opened for ZEP applicants and the enrolments began on 02 October 2017.
 
As with the successful ZSP dispensation, applications for ZEP are facilitated online on the VFS Global website and the adjudication thereof is handled by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
 
To date, of the estimated 197941 Zimbabwean nationals eligible for ZEP, 163566 applicants have completed their online forms and 124942 applicants have secured their appointments.
 
To facilitate and streamline the process, VFS Global has set up enquiry counters in all 10 ZEP centres across South Africa, where applicants can get validity checks done in person, check documentation, application status, etc.

VFS Global is fully prepared and confident that it will complete the quantum of applications within the timelines as prescribed by the DHA. Operating hours at the 10 ZEP Centres have been extended and will now be open six days a week, Monday to Saturday from 7:00 to 19:00.

Applicants are encouraged to keep all documents ready when applying for the ZEP. Besides the helpline and email, applicants can reach out in person at enquiry booths set up across our 10 centres in South Africa, where staff will address their queries expeditiously.

Applicants can use any of the below platforms or visit the following centres for any queries and further assistance:
 
Phone: +27 (0)10 593 4585
Email: info.zep@vfshelpline.com
Facebook Page: @ZimbabweanExemptionPermit



Documentation required
It is important to note the following documentation required from ZSP holders when completing the ZEP online application process:
 

• A valid Zimbabwean Special Permit
• A valid Zimbabwean passport.                                                    
• Evidence of employment if applying for working rights.
• Evidence of business if applying for business rights
• Evidence of an admission letter from a recognized learning institution, if applying for study rights.

When the applicant has all the required documents, they can proceed to apply as follows:

Fill in the online form and submit applications through the VFS website: www.vfsglobal.com/ZEP/SouthAfrica. Print out a copy of the completed online form for your appointment. NO handwritten forms will be accepted.

After completing your online form, submit the form and book your appointment date. Rescheduling will only be allowed under special circumstances.

The R 1090 fee is payable via debit/credit card, EFT or pre-payment at Standard Bank using the unique system generated ZEP number as reference. The fee is non-refundable and applicants may not do bulk payments as a group.

Arrive 10 minutes early for your appointment with your passport, proof of employment/work/study letter, online form printout and proof of payment.

On arrival, you need to submit your complete application form and enrol your biometrics (fingerprints and photo). You will then receive a receipt to keep safe and use to track your application and present when collecting the ZEP permit.

Once documents are submitted you will not be allowed to submit any further documents. As a ZSP applicant you will be allowed to travel using your ZEP receipt and expired ZSP permit, until your application is processed.