Ask Athalie Banner

Answers to your questions

Have a question you would like answered? Email us and we may answer it. The questions here are based on ones from our readers, with identifying information removed.

Topic: Zimbabwe Permit  |  Show questions and answers for all topics

How do I get a valid permit if my ZEP has expired and how can I renew my driver’s license?

You can book an appointment at VSF Global for a new ZEP permit online. You can renew your driver’s license within a three-month grace period after it expires without facing penalties.

Read more

My Zimbabwean employee has worked for me since 2017. Do I need to apply for a waiver? And where do I find it?

Current ZEP holders can either apply for new ZEPs or apply for a waiver so that they can apply for work visas. New ZEPs would be valid until 29 November 2025.

Read more

Can a non-South African learner with an expired passport or without a valid permit write matric?

In terms of a 2019 judgment in the Makhanda High Court, yes. But the Department of Education website says otherwise.

Read more

I am a ZEP holder who has applied for a general work permit. I am worried that I will not get a response on my application before my employment contract expires.

ZEP holders who have applied for waivers or other visas are allowed to stay and be employed in South Africa until they receive the outcome of their applications.

Read more

Will the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) extensions be renewed in November 2024 or November 2025?

ZEPs are valid until 29 November 2024, to give ZEP holders time to apply for a new ZEP that would expire on 29 November 2025, or an alternative visa.

Read more

Do ZEP holders still need to apply for skills waivers from the South African Qualifications Authority and the labour department to confirm their qualifications?

Yes. Since Home Affairs' issuing of Circular 7, foreign nationals can now apply for their waivers from the labour department directly.

Read more

What does a ZEP holder need to claim UIF?

To apply for UIF as a foreign national, you need your passport and completed forms U1-28 and U1-19.

Read more

Can my South African-born child register for matric with her passport if I am a ZEP holder?

Yes, her passport will be sufficient to register for matric.

Read more

What do I do about Home Affairs not respondeding to my applications for an accompanying visa?

You'll need to get help from an organisation with experience in dealing with Home Affairs.

Read more

What happens to ZEP holders' bank loans if they are forced to leave SA?

Usually a person's debts remain active if they leave the country, but it is unclear what will happen if they are forced to leave, as with ZEP holders.

Read more