Prestige MD and Co-Founder, Christine Mutsau, was interviewed by Clement Manyathela on Newzroom Afrika on 1 July 2023, about the impact of the recent court ruling on ZEP Permit Holders.
South African Government Loses ZEP Cancellation Case, ZEP Holders Should Still Apply for Long-Term Visas and Work with Prestige Immigration.
Clement Manyathela interviews Christine and Prestige Immigration Services Clients:
Calvin Kanyoli – Kany Branding
Munyaradzi Mpofu – Kingdom Blue
Both former and current ZEP business permit holders, who reached out to work with Prestige and took proactive action.
Calvin now has a mainstream business visa.
Munyaradzi has a positive DTI recommendation and now awaiting for the actual business visa, application which has been submitted already.
They explain in the interview the positive impact this has had on their businesses and their lives and the lives of their employees.
Background
The South African government has lost a court case challenging the cancellation of the Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP). The High Court in Pretoria ruled on June 29, 2023, that the government’s decision to cancel the ZEP was unlawful and irrational.
This is a major victory for ZEP permit holders, who can now continue to live in South Africa legally. However, it is important to note that the ZEP is still a special dispensation permit, and it will eventually come to an end. Therefore, ZEP permit holders should still take action and apply for a long-term visa if they want to stay in South Africa permanently.
There are several different long-term visas that ZEP permit holders could apply for. Some of the most common options include the following, which we, at Prestige Immigration Services can assist with:
- Business Visa: ZEP business permit holders, who have been running their businesses on a ZEP permits, may qualify for a Business Visa, which Christine explains in this video.
- We have helped clients from all over the world obtain business visas in South Africa. We have a deep understanding of the South African immigration system, and we are always up-to-date on the latest changes. We work closely with our clients to develop a customized strategy for obtaining a visa. We also provide our clients with ongoing support throughout the process.
- The Critical Skills Visa: This visa is designed for foreigners who have skills that are in high demand in South Africa.
- Visitor’s Visa/Study Visa: For families of long-term visa holders, they may apply for visitor’s visas or study visas if the children are of school going age.
The application process for long-term visas can be complex, so it is important to seek professional advice. However, it is worth the effort to apply for a long-term visa if you want to stay in South Africa permanently and avoid the uncertainty of holding the special permits, the future of which is uncertain.
Why you should work with Prestige Immigration?
If you are a ZEP permit holder and you are considering applying for a long-term visa, we encourage you to reach out to Prestige Immigration. Prestige Immigration is a leading immigration consultancy firm in South Africa and the team has over 20 years of combined experience. They have a team of experienced immigration lawyers who can help you navigate the complex immigration process and assist with a successful application.
Here are some of the reasons why you should work with Prestige Immigration:
- We have a proven track record of success. Prestige Immigration has helped hundreds of foreign nationals obtain long-term visas in South Africa.
- We have a team of experienced immigration lawyers and consultants. Our team has the knowledge and expertise to help you with every aspect of the immigration process.
- We are committed to providing excellent customer service.
We will work with you to understand your needs and ensure that you are satisfied with the services they provide.
If you are a ZEP permit holder and you are serious about staying in South Africa permanently, we encourage you to reach out to Prestige Immigration today. They can help you secure your future in South Africa.
Contact Us If you would like to know if you qualify for a visa, simply click on the link below and we will review and advise you if you likely qualify for free.
