OCTOBER 2025 – ZIMBABWE | LESOTHO
EXEMPTION PERMIT HOLDERS
It is important that employers note the following:
Extension of validity of exemption permits
On 7 October 2025, South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Dr. LA Schreiber, announced an 18-month extension of the Zimbabwean and Lesotho exemption permits, which were set to expire on 28 November 2025.
The notices were published in Government Gazette No. 53484 and No. 53483, respectively.
During the extension period, several key provisions apply for Zimbabweans and Basotho:
- Exemption permit holders cannot be arrested, ordered to depart or detained for deportation.
- Exemption permit holders are permitted to enter and exit South Africa under the Immigration Act.
- Exemption permit holders will not need to provide a valid exemption certificate, visa or authorisation letter when applying for any visa to temporarily stay in South Africa.
This move allows exemption permit holders to continue residing and working in South Africa until 28 May 2027.
To view the notice regarding Zimbabwean permit holders, follow the link.
To view the notice regarding Lesotho permit holders, follow the link.
