How can ZEP holders secure a 5-year general work visa?

In November final yr, South African Residence Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber prolonged the validity of the Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEP) till 28 November 2025.

With the approaching expiration of the ZEP, SA Migration Worldwide has outlined a streamlined course of for ZEP holders to transition to a 5-year Basic Work Visa.

This transition comes with waivers and exemptions, guaranteeing a smoother software course of.

Closing Date for ZEP Extension

ZEP allow holders who want to lengthen their permits should submit their functions by 29 November 2025 by way of VFS World. This deadline is essential for these transitioning from the Zimbabwe Exemption Allow (ZEP) to a Basic Work Visa.

In October 2024, South Africa launched a points-based system for Basic Work Visa functions. Nonetheless, ZEP holders are exempt from this technique, making their transition course of distinct.

Transition From ZEP to the Basic Work Visa

ZEP holders should apply for a Basic Work Visa beneath a selected guidelines designed for them. The method includes a number of key steps:

Job Provide: Safe a job supply from a South African employer.

Employer Necessities: The employer should meet particular regulatory necessities.

Collect Required Paperwork: Get hold of all mandatory supporting paperwork.

Submit Utility: Full the applying course of on-line by way of the VFS World web site.

Pay DHA Payment: Settle the required charges with the Division of Residence Affairs (DHA).

Look forward to Analysis: The DHA will assessment the applying and confirm all submitted paperwork.

Waivers for {Qualifications} and Skilled Physique Registration

ZEP holders could also be eligible for waivers or exemptions from particular necessities, together with:

SAQA (South African {Qualifications} Authority) analysis of {qualifications}.

Formal qualification necessities for particular job positions.

Labour market testing necessities, that are sometimes wanted for Basic Work Visa candidates.

Factors Allocation for ZEP Holders

SA Migration Worldwide explains that, not like different candidates beneath the brand new Basic Work Visa system, authorities will assess ZEP holders with out utilizing the points-based system. As well as, ZEP holders could profit from precedence processing as a consequence of their distinctive circumstances. A simplified and facilitated software course of has additionally been designed to make sure a smoother transition for ZEP holders.

Anticipated Timeline

Processing instances for the Basic Work Visa sometimes vary from 6 to 12 months, relying on particular person instances and the amount of functions acquired.

Key function gamers within the course of embody VFS World, which handles the submission and preliminary processing of functions. The Division of Residence Affairs (DHA) is chargeable for evaluating and approving functions.