On 27 June 2023 the Pretoria High Court handed down a judgement declaring the decision of the Minister of Home Affairs, which terminated the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs), as unlawful, unconstitutional and invalid.
The judges found that the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) did not have adequate consultations with stakeholders and affected parties, and also did not conclude a fair process before they announced their decision to terminate the ZEPs. The order is for the ZEPs to stay in place for a period of 12 months and that the Minister should, in this time, conclude a fair process and thereafter make a further decision on the future of the ZEPs.
However, yesterday, the Minister in his typical defiance indicated that he will be applying for leave to appeal the judgment.
The best route for any current ZEP holder, or any foreign national employee for that matter, regardless of their current type of visa or permit, is to consult with an Into SA Advisor in order to determine which permit or visa is most suitable.
Termination of Zimbabwean Exempt Permits (ZEP) declared unconstitutional
