Hundreds of Zimbabwean nationals have approached the Zimbabwean Consulate in Cape Town this week, requesting assistance to return to their home country. The individuals gathered in anticipation of an unofficial “deadline” of 30 June, which has been circulated by anti-immigrant groups demanding that foreign nationals leave South Africa.
Government Dismisses Deadline Claims
South African government officials have formally rejected the existence of any state-mandated exit deadline for foreign nationals. During recent interventions, the Department of Home Affairs clarified that current immigration laws remain in force and protect the rights of all individuals residing within the country, regardless of their nationality.
The 30 June date you are hearing is not a government position. Our constitution and immigration laws protect the rights of everyone inside South Africa, whether you are a citizen or a migrant,
said Dr Tommy Makhode, the director-general of Home Affairs. Furthermore, Zimbabwe Exemption Permit (ZEP) holders retain legal status in South Africa until 28 May 2027, according to government policy announced in October 2025.
Safety Concerns And Community Impact
The rise in voluntary repatriation requests follows a period of heightened social instability, including reports of intimidation and xenophobic rhetoric directed at migrant communities. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, recently expressed concern regarding the activities of groups attempting to enforce their own versions of immigration law through house-to-house warnings and public protests.
Many migrants cite economic hardship and the inability to secure formal documentation as primary drivers for their decision to leave. “I don’t have documents because it’s too expensive to get them in Zimbabwe. When we come here, we also struggle to get work permits,” said Mgcini Sibanda, a Zimbabwean national who sought assistance at the consulate.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring community tensions to ensure public safety in the lead-up to and beyond the 30 June date.