The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, has announced an 18-month extension for both the Lesotho Exemption Permits (LEPs) and Zimbabwean Exemption Permits (ZEPs), which are now valid until May 28, 2027. This reprieve offers renewed certainty for thousands of permit holders whose documents were due to expire on 28 November 2025.
The official Directive on the Extension of the Validity of Exemptions was published in the Government Gazette on 7 October 2025.
A Step Toward Policy Certainty
Jaco Brits, Head of Immigration at Xpatweb, welcomed the decision, noting that it provides stability for affected ZEP and LEP holders.
Dr Schreiber explained that the extension allows time for the Immigration Advisory Board (IAB) to finalise recommendations on a sustainable long-term solution for exemption permit holders.
Over the years, the discontinuation of ZEP and LEP programmes has led to several court rulings declaring their termination unlawful, unconstitutional, and invalid.
Immigration Advisory Board Reactivated
The Minister reinstated the IAB on 1 April 2025, nearly a decade after its inactivity. The Board’s key role is to advise on immigration policy, including exemption permits.
Since its reactivation, the IAB has convened multiple sessions to discuss the issue. As consultations with critical stakeholders remain ongoing, the temporary extension is viewed as a reasonable and legally sound measure.
Under the Immigration Act 13 of 2002, the IAB is mandated to shape immigration regulations and policies through consultative and evidence-based processes — a step that aims to ensure regulatory consistency and legal compliance.
Key Directives from the Minister
- Permit Validity Extension
All existing exemption permits remain valid until 28 May 2027, extending their validity by 18 months beyond the previous expiry date. - No Arrests or Deportations
Permit holders are protected from arrest, detention, or deportation under section 34 of the Immigration Act, even if their exemption certificates have lapsed. - Freedom of Movement
Exemption holders may enter and exit South Africa under section 9 of the Immigration Act and the Immigration Regulations, 2014, provided other travel requirements are met. - Visa Applications Permitted
LEP and ZEP holders are permitted to apply for any visa category under section 10(2) without needing to present a valid exemption certificate, visa, or authorisation letter.
Guidance for Permit Holders
While the extension provides temporary relief, affected individuals are encouraged to pursue long-term legal status in South Africa by applying for mainstream work, business, or residence visas where eligible.
The consultation process and IAB deliberations are expected to guide the government’s next steps towards a durable, lawful, and inclusive policy framework for exemption holders.
