Permanent Residence Path Open for ZEP Holders – Eduzim News

South Africa — The government has signalled that holders of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) may apply for permanent residence, but only through existing legal channels, as the programme was never intended to offer a pathway to automatic settlement.

Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Njabulo Nzuza, said Zimbabweans currently in possession of ZEPs should begin exploring alternative legal options if they wish to remain in the country beyond the lifespan of the permit.

Speaking on Newzroom Afrika on Monday, Nzuza emphasised that the ZEP system was introduced as a temporary intervention rather than a permanent immigration solution.

“Well, the Zimbabwean exemption permits, as the words say, were special permits that were issued to Zimbabweans under certain conditions that were there,” he said.

“We have been renewing it over time, and even right now, we are calling on all those who are on this exemption permit to look at other legal pathways through which they can apply for permanent residency or any other form of legal stay.”

Nzuza stressed that any applications for permanent residence would be assessed on merit, ruling out the possibility of a blanket transition for all ZEP holders.

“It’s not going to be a blanket approach where you say all ZEP holders are now permanent residence holders. Each individual must apply, and we will determine whether they qualify,” he said.

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