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      On 7 October 2025, the South African Department of Home Affairs announced the extension of the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEP)1 and the Lesotho Exemption Permits (LEP).2 Nationals of Zimbabwe and Lesotho who are in possession of these permits are permitted to legally reside in South Africa. 

      WHY THIS MATTERS

      The extension of the ZEP and LEP means that current holders of ZEP and LEP permits can continue to reside, study, and work legally in South Africa and South African law enforcement agencies and immigration officials may not arrest, order to depart, or deport permit holders for any reason related to them not having any valid exemption certificate. Holders of exemption certificates may be allowed to enter and depart provided that they comply with the other requirements for entry into and departure from South Africa.

      Permit holders will not be required to produce a valid exemption certificate, visa, or an authorisation letter to remain in South Africa when making an application for any category of the visa for temporary sojourn in the country as contemplated in section 10(2) of the Immigration Act.

      Context

      The Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEP), and Lesotho Exemption Permits (LEP) were due to expire on 28 November 2025, but now both permits’ validity period has been extended by another 18 months, until 28 May 2027. 

      KPMG INSIGHTS

      The employment of ZEP and LEP holders within South Africa remains allowed until 28 May 2027.  The extended timeframe is intended to provide offers much needed stability and a realistic opportunity for meaningful engagement and consultations, allowing the minister of Home Affairs and the Immigration Advisory Board (IAB) to further deliberate the immediate future and a long-term solution for holders of ZEP and LEP permits.

      In the light of upcoming changes, organisations affected by the update may wish to consider:

      • Having HR and Global Mobility teams  update their internal policies and systems to reflect the extended validity and legal protections.

      • Proactively assisting  employees with applications for mainstream visas.

      KPMG will continue to monitor further announcements from the Department of Home Affairs for any further updates regarding the rights of Zimbabwe and Lesotho foreign nationals’ rights to enter, stay in, and depart South Africa.

      Impacted nationals of Zimbabwe and Lesotho – and their employers or educational institutions where they study – with  questions or concerns about the modified rules  and appropriate next steps  should consult with their qualified immigration professional or a member of the immigration team with KPMG in South Africa (see the Contacts section).

      FOOTNOTES:

      1  Republic of South Africa Ministry of Home Affairs, “Minister’s Immigration Directive No 21 of 2025,” Government Gazette/Staatskoerant No. 53484, dated 7 October 2025.

      2  Republic of South Africa Ministry of Home Affairs,” Minister’s Immigration Directive No 20 of 2025,” Government Gazette/Staatskoerant No. 53483, dated 7 October 2025.

      Please check - Department of Home Affairs, “Press Statement: Zimbabwean Nationals Granted Exemption in terms of Section 31(2)(b) of the Immigration Act (2022).”

      Please check - Department of Home Affairs, “MINISTER OPENS THE APPLICATION PROCESS FOR THE NEW LESOTHO EXEMPTION PERMIT (LEP)” dated 18 November 2019.

      Contacts

      lesego-matsheka
      Lesego Matsheka

      Associate Director

      KPMG in South Africa

      Natalie Pike
      Natalie Pike

      Immigration Manager

      KPMG in South Africa

      Navisha Anthoo
      Navisha Anthoo

      Immigration Manager

      KPMG in South Africa

      More Information

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      Disclaimer

      * Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.

      The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in South Africa.

      GMS Flash Alert is a Global Mobility Services publication of the KPMG LLP Washington National Tax practice. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organization. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee and does not provide services to clients. No member firm has any authority to obligate or bind KPMG International or any other member firm vis-à-vis third parties, nor does KPMG International have any such authority to obligate or bind any member firm. The information contained herein is of a general nature and is not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.

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