Africa Diaspora Forum representative, Nqabutho Mabhena has held meetings with VFS in Johannesburg. In his YouTube video, he advised that 90 000 Zimbabweans have applied and 70 000 have been finalised. 30 000 Zimbabweans have not downloaded their waivers.
Key Points:
- VFS will re-send an email to notify those who have not yet downloaded their waivers.
- Police clearance is no longer required.
- Durban and Nelspruit VFS are giving incorrect information.
- Bruce email is not responding.
- People have been receiving their waiver outcome with mistakes.
- A number of ZEP holders did not apply for study permits for their children.
This comes after a meeting with VFS Global that was held yesterday.
- Extensions of ZEPs: The validity of Zimbabwean Exemption Permits has been extended multiple times, with the latest extension for new LEP and ZEP applicants until November 29, 2025.
- Application Process: ZEP holders are required to apply for new permits through the VFS Global online portal.
- Waiver and Visa Applications: ZEP holders who have applied for waivers or other visas can continue residing and working in South Africa until their application outcomes are finalized. Digital initiatives are being implemented for visa waiver outcomes.
- Deadlines and Future Plans: Critical deadlines for ZEP holders to apply for waivers or transition to the new exemption permit are highlighted, and it is emphasized that the new exemption permit is a temporary measure without a pathway to change immigration status.
