ZEP holders urged to apply for Permanent Residency

Deputy Home Affairs Minister Njabulo Nzuza has encouraged foreign nationals holding Zimbabwean Exemption Permit (ZEP) to apply for permanent residency if they wish to remain in the country.

Nzuza emphasised that the ZEP programme was introduced as a temporary measure and was never intended to provide indefinite stay in South Africa. As such, affected individuals are being urged to regularise their status through available legal immigration channels.

The ZEP, which primarily benefits nationals from Zimbabwe, has been subject to policy changes in recent years as government moves to phase out the programme.

Authorities have reiterated that those who qualify should take steps to apply for permanent residency or explore other visa options in line with immigration laws. Officials say this approach is aimed at ensuring compliance while providing a pathway for eligible individuals to continue living and working legally in the country.