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LESOTHO EXEMPTION PERMIT (LEP)

LESOTHO EXEMPTION PERMIT (LEP)

The Lesotho Exemption Permit (LEP) allows Basotho nationals who are living in South Africa without a valid visa to regularise their stay. It was introduced to provide legal status, enabling holders to work, study, or conduct business lawfully in South Africa. The permit is generally issued for a limited period and may be renewed depending on government policy. LEP holders must maintain a valid Lesotho passport and comply with South African laws, but the permit does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residence or citizenship. Musasa Attorneys can assist LEP holders in transitioning to mainstream visas or regularising their status under current immigration laws.

The LEP was implemented to provide legal recognition and protection to Basotho nationals who were living in South Africa irregularly but contributing to the local economy.

It allowed qualifying applicants to work, study, or conduct business lawfully in South Africa.

The LEP was generally valid for a four-year period, in line with the terms of other exemption permits.

Each phase was announced by the DHA , and validity depended on national policy and bilateral agreements between South Africa and Lesotho.

Applicants had to be Lesotho nationals residing in South Africa at the time of application.

A valid Lesotho passport was required.

Holders were allowed to work, study, or run a business under the terms of the exemption.

The permit was not renewable automatically, and each extension required a new policy decision by the Minister of Home Affairs.

The LEP did not provide a direct pathway to permanent residence or citizenship.

LEP holders could not change their visa status from within South Africa to another visa category (e.g., from LEP to a general work visa).

The permit was not a permanent residence permit and did not count toward residency years for citizenship purposes.

Renewal or continuation was subject to ministerial discretion and policy updates.

The final validity period of the LEP was extended on several occasions to allow holders to transition into the mainstream immigration system.
Current or former LEP holders are now encouraged to apply for applicable visas such as:

General Work Visa

Spousal or Relative Visa

Study Visa

Business Visa

Each transition may require a waiver application where conditions prevent applying from within South Africa.

Legal assistance in transitioning from LEP to other visa categories.

Waiver applications under Section 31(2)(c) of the Immigration Act.

Appeals and representations following DHA or VFS refusals.

Advice on long-term residency and regularisation options for Basotho nationals.

OUR PHILOSOPHY

At Nuborders Immigration Solutions centres around providing personalised, efficient, and compassionate support throughout your immigration journey. We believe that navigating the complexities of immigration should be a seamless experience, tailored to each individual’s unique needs and circumstances.