The Department of Home Affairs has recently issued Immigration Directive No. 17 of 2024, extending the validity of Lesotho Exemption Permits (LEP) until 28 November 2025.
This extension follows a Gauteng High Court order requiring the Minister of Home Affairs to consult affected LEP holders and stakeholders regarding the future of the LEP program. The reactivation of the Immigration Advisory Board (IAB) is currently in progress to ensure a fair and compliant process.
What this means for LEP holders:
- Validity Extension: Existing LEPs are valid until 28 November 2025.
- No Deportation: LEP holders cannot be arrested, detained, or deported for lacking a valid exemption certificate.
- Travel Permissions: LEP holders may enter or exit South Africa, provided they meet all other entry/exit requirements, except for possessing a valid visa.
- Exemption for Applications: LEP holders are not required to produce valid exemption certificates when applying for extensions under Section 31(2)(b) of the Immigration Act.