Immigration department prefer US dollar payments over bond notes

The Department of Immigration  has said it will continue to charge in foreign currency for certain services which are levied in hard currencies.

 However, it said bond notes are also accepted for payments.

"The public should be made aware that immigration services, over the years, have been levied in foreign currency, as the services relate to foreigners with the exception of border passes, which are designed for citizens living close to the borders and, who have relations across the border.

"Statutory Instrument 195/98 as amended by SI 126/05 clearly tabulates these fees and the acceptable currencies and this position existed during the Zimbabwean dollar era and still stands after the multi-currency period" it said in a statement.

Added the statement "The introduction of the bond notes should not cause any confusion to this state of affairs. Any alternative approach to this statutory position is contrary to statute,".

There are reports that some government departments are refusing to accept bond notes opting for US dollars.

 Also several departments demand cash as they don't have point of sale machines at a time when government is encouraging use of plastic money.