There is uncertainty as to the future of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permits (ZEP), formerly the Zimbabwe Special Permits (ZSP) as they come to expiration in December 2021. Most of the beneficiaries under the programme may well be in panic mode, and are eager to know what the future holds for them beyond December 2021.
The system under which these permits were issued started back in 2009 and has been renewed on a cycle of 4 years, with the latest having been effective since 1 January 2018.
There is no official decision of the SA government as yet, on whether there will be a new cycle beyond December 2021. Speculation is rife in some sections that there is appetite in the authorities to not declare a new cycle of the ZEPs.
The last word from the RSA government was that it is still consulting all relevant stakeholders to come up with an official position. Noting this, what could inform the considerations of the SA government pertaining to this matter?
First and foremost, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused immense damage to economies all over the world, with the RSA Minister of Finance on 28 July 2021 indicating in a statement that the economy may soundly return to pre-Covid levels around 2023. The vaccination drive and the adjusted level regime of restrictions are all aimed at reducing the effects of the pandemic, to set the economy on a path to recovery. Amongst the chief effects of the pandemic, was loss of employment for many people and closure of businesses. It then becomes critical for the SA government to prioritise job creation to alleviate the situation. The Critical Skills Draft List released by the Department of Home Affairs in February 2021, may send an indication of the government’s position in this matter. The list trimmed down some trades and professions regarded before as critical skills where foreign nationals were granted permits to seek employment in South Africa. What this means is that the government is trying to reduce the number of foreign nationals on this permit regime and promote the hiring of South African citizens instead. On the ground, locals have raised sentiments in public discourse and social media that what is important at the moment is for the South African government to promote the employment of South Africans over foreign nationals. Both these developments are very telling.
Secondly and related to the COVID-19 pandemic issue, social distancing protocols require that people not gather in one place at the same time. Zimbabwe Exemption Permits have mainly been applied for physically at designated centres. In order to apply in time and not risk being declared illegal and/or undesirable, most people will likely rush to apply early in the event that the SA government announces that applications are open. This will go against efforts to curb the pandemic, especially as South Africa is anticipating a fourth wave of new Covid-19 infections by December 2021.
Thirdly, South Africa is in preparations for Local Government Elections in few months, necessitating government departments to align their cooperation and efforts to sustain a credible election. It is a matter of utmost government importance and priority, together with containing the pandemic, at the moment. Critical as it may be, the issue of ZEPs may suffer subservient status nonetheless.
In conclusion, it remains to be seen what the South African government will come up with after its engagements with stakeholders regarding the issue of Zimbabwe Exemption Permits. It will take a bit of patience on the part of would-be beneficiaries, although it is uncertain what the SA government will decide.
It is likely time for Zimbabweans who may be affected by a negative decision to consider and prepare moving to mainstream Visas/Permits whilst there is still time. At the core of our specialist services is assisting foreign nationals from all walks of life to apply, facilitate speedy resolution at the DHA, and appeal rejected applications of Visas and Permits in different categories. We advise therefore, to forestall disappointments and panic in the event that the ZEPs are not considered for a new cycle, people may approach us so that we can start the process of migrating to other mainstream Visas and Permits that go beyond the December 2021 deadline.
We stand ready to assist in a wide array of legal immigration matters so that you can explore and pursue your opportunities across borders legally. Our approach is professional, comprehensive and counters the hurdles in immigration. Contact us for an appointment and consultation.
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