IBN Immigration Solutions on ZEP Update:
Following a recent interview with Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Njabulo Nzuza, several media outlets reported that ZEP holders can now apply for permanent residence. We want to ensure your members have accurate information: there has been no change in law or policy at this time.
Andreas Krensel, Deputy Chairman of the Immigration Advisory Board of South Africa, has reviewed the Deputy Minister's statement in full and issued a clear, on-the-record clarification. Here is what employers need to know:
· No new policy has been introduced. The Deputy Minister did not announce a blanket right for ZEP holders to apply for permanent residence.
· The established legal pathway remains in place. ZEP holders are encouraged to transition to a temporary residence permit — such as a work visa — before applying for permanent residence.
· All applications are assessed on individual merit. There is no automatic or category-wide approval process.
· Public participation is still ongoing. Any future policy changes will follow the proper consultation process.
For employers, this means that the current legal status of ZEP holders in your workforce remains unchanged. We encourage your members not to make any staffing or compliance decisions based on the recent headlines until a formal policy change is confirmed.
Watch Andreas Krensel's full clarification here:
https://youtu.be/h9VoWZM48Wk