The Helen Suzman Foundation (HSF) has received concerning information indicating that misinformation is being circulated regarding the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP)/Lesotho Exemption Permit (LEP) consultation process undertaken by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
HSF has been notified that ZEP/LEP holders are being informed that they are required to complete and submit written representations to DHA to receive an extension of their permits. We have also been alerted that individuals are charging permit holders fees to assist with these submissions.
This information is false.
Current ZEP/LEP permits that were set to expire on 31 December 2021 are valid.
Participation in the consultation process is voluntary and there is no requirement that ZEP/LEP holders pay any person, company, or organisation in order to participate in the consultation process. Any submission made to the Department of Home Affairs is free of charge.
The lack of official information creates an environment conducive to exploitation and extortion, particularly where vulnerable communities are concerned. Individuals seeking to make their voices heard should not be misled into believing that payment is necessary to participate in public consultation processes.
HSF urgently calls on DHA to ensure that clear and accurate information regarding the consultation process is disseminated through official channels. HSF further advises that individuals do not pay for assistance relating to submissions.
Below is the updated information regarding consultations:
- Written submissions: Individuals, organisations, and/or community groups may submit electronic representations to DHA via ZEPLEP@dha.gov.za or mailed to Department of Home Affairs, Private Bag X114, Pretoria, 0001 by 22 June 2026.
- Oral representations: Stakeholders may attend the following consultation sessions hosted by the DHA:
Eastern Cape: 13 May 2026 (Virtual)
Northwest Rustenburg: 19 May 2026 (In-person – Safari Hotel & Convention Centre)
Western Cape: 20 May 2026 (Virtual)
Mpumalanga Mbombela: 26 May 2026 (In person – Khayalami Hotel) (Meeting ID: 341 675 401 062 950 ; Passcode: LP32wP2G)
Kwa-Zulu Natal: 28 May 2026 (Virtual)
Northern Cape: 29 May 2026 (Virtual)
Limpopo Polokwane: 10 June 2026 (In-person – Bolivia Hotel (TBC)) (Meeting ID: 388 468 668 297 06 ; Passcode: Gk7it6RT)
Gauteng: 18 June 2026 (In-person – Birchwood Hotel) (Meeting ID: 321 590 631 589 868 ; Passcode: 2tS2oy9P)
When making written submissions, submissions should speak to personal circumstances, lived experiences, concerns, and policy recommendations regarding the ZEP including:
- How proposed changes would affect ZEP holders, individuals, or other groups;
- Risks relating to rights, livelihoods, or family unity; and
- Suggestions for how the ZEP should be treated moving forward.
HSF encourages all interested stakeholders to monitor official DHA communication channels for updates, including any additional dates, virtual participation options, or changes to submission deadlines.
