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The Zimbabwean community in South Africa on 30 July launched a petition urging the Zimbabwean government to reconsider its decision to hike the price of Zimbabwean passports in South Africa.
The Zimbabwean consulate in Johannesburg said that all passport applications will now be processed as express applications, resulting in a cost of US$250 instead of the previous US$150 charged for standard passports.
Additionally, passport applicants are required to pay a separate US$20 “application fee.”
As reported by <a href="https://groundup.org.za/article/petition-on-zimbabwe-passport-price-gathers-1000-signatures/">GroundUp</a>, the petition calling on the Zimbabwean government to reduce the passport application fees has already garnered signatures from more than 1,000 individuals. Reads the petition:
<blockquote>
This fee is far beyond what many Zimbabwean nationals in South Africa can afford, considering the average earnings of our community.
It’s an overwhelming burden that prevents us from securing our legal documents which are part and parcel of our fundamental human rights.
We believe everyone, regardless of their economic conditions, has a right to their own nationality.
We call upon the Zimbabwean government to reassess these fees and reduce them to a fair amount.
</blockquote>
The petition had gathered over 1,100 signatures as of the morning of 2 August.
The chairperson of the Zimbabwe Community in South Africa, Ngqabutho Mabhena said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwean passport is very expensive. The government wants to use the passport as a tool to raise money.
</blockquote>
A Zimbabwean informal trader living in Gqeberha described the ZNU PF-led government as “heartless”. He said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwean government is heartless. We are suffering in foreign countries because they mismanaged our country and they now milk us dry like this.
</blockquote>
Chris Mapingure, chairman of the Zimbabwe Migrants Support Network, said:
<blockquote>
The majority of them do not have formal jobs. They’re earning less than R5,000 per month. Many people won’t afford this amount and a lot of people will remain undocumented.
</blockquote>
Responding to a request for comment from GroundUp, Zimbabwe’s ambassador to South Africa, David Hamadziripi said:
<blockquote>
The first is the ordinary passport that costs USD170 and the second is the express/emergency that is charged US$250.
We have taken note of the reactions by our nationals in respect of the cost of the e-passport/express and we’re engaging our government to be aware of these responses.
The Embassy in Pretoria and the Johannesburg and Cape Town Consulates implement government policies so when we have reactions from our citizens we make our government aware of these national concerns.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Zimbabweans in South Africa are upset because the price of passports has gone up a lot. It used to cost $150, but now it is $250 plus an extra $20 fee. Many people cannot afford this high price, especially those who do not have good jobs. A petition with over 1,000 signatures asks the Zimbabwean government to make passports cheaper. People feel the government is being unfair and making it hard for them to get important legal documents. The government is aware of the complaints and is looking into the issue.

Anger Over "Exorbitant" Passport Price For Zimbabweans Based In South Africa

The opposition The Patriotic Front (TPF) party has called on the government to disclose the details of its dealings with Garsu Pasaulis and Semlex, the companies contracted to produce Zimbabwean passports.
The demand for transparency comes in the wake of the government’s announcement that Zimbabweans living in South Africa will be required to pay US$250 (approximately R4,500) to acquire passports at the country’s Consulate in Johannesburg.
When applying for a passport, either an emergency passport which costs US$250 or an ordinary passport that takes seven days to process which costs $150, applicants are required to pay an additional $20 “application fee.”
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage directed that all e-passport applications processed at the consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa, be classified as express/emergency applications for US$250.
According to <a href="https://cite.org.zw/tpf-demands-answers-on-passport-rip-off/">CITE</a>, Garsu Pasaulis, a Lithuanian company, was awarded a contract to produce e-passports for Zimbabwe in 2021 under controversial circumstances.
Since 2014, the company has been owned by Albert Karaziwan, a Belgian citizen, and Semlex Europe, a company he operates and partially owns with his family.
Garsu Pasaulis has reportedly faced allegations of bribery and corruption in Asia and several African countries.
TPF Interim Secretary-General, Prosper Ncube, said the government should disclose the share of revenue the company collects from each printed passport, among other things. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
We demand that the government immediately reverse this decision and provide a fair and affordable solution for our citizens living abroad.
Furthermore, we call on the government to come clean about their dealings with Garsu Pasaulis and Semlex, the companies contracted to produce our passports.
Specifically, we demand that the government provides full information on the following: the exact amount of money that Garsu Pasaulis and Semlex are getting from every passport made; the terms of the contract between the government and these companies; why the contract was awarded without a public tender; and what measures are in place to ensure these companies are not profiteering from our citizens.
We will not stand by and watch as our citizens are taken advantage of. We demand transparency, accountability, and fairness.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe’s passport fees are the most expensive in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.
In South Africa, a passport costs R600. In Botswana, a passport is priced at 260 Pula, and in Zambia, an express passport in Zambia costs 700 kwacha.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Patriotic Front (TPF) party wants the government to be honest about passport contracts with Garsu Pasaulis and Semlex. Zimbabweans in South Africa have to pay a lot for passports. The fees are the highest in the region. Garsu Pasaulis has faced corruption allegations in other countries. TPF wants the government to reveal how much money these companies make from each passport. They also want to know the terms of the contract and why there was no public competition. TPF demands transparency and fairness for citizens living abroad.

The Patriotic Front Party Demands Transparency On Passport Contracts

Takudzwa Muchenje, a Zimbabwean citizen living in South Africa, has launched a petition challenging the exorbitant price of obtaining a passport from the Zimbabwean government’s consulate offices in Johannesburg.
The petition was initiated after the Zimbabwean government opened a passport processing centre at its consulate in Johannesburg and set the passport fee at $270 (R4,900).
In comparison, an ordinary passport collected within 7 days in Zimbabwe costs $170 – $100 less than the amount charged at the Johannesburg consulate.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/zimbabwean-in-south-africa-challenges-exorbitant-us270-passport-fee/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Muchenje’s petition, which the publication has seen, argues that the higher fees at the South African consulate place an undue financial burden on Zimbabweans living abroad who need to obtain or renew their passports. Reads the petition:
<blockquote>
We are facing a critical issue that demands immediate attention and action. The recent increase in passport fees by the Zimbabwean Government has placed an undue burden on many of us living in South Africa.
The cost of obtaining a passport has soared to R4,900, making it nearly impossible for the average Zimbabwean to afford it.
Many Zimbabweans in South Africa are already struggling to make ends meet. The current economic situation means that even basic necessities are hard to come by. Adding exorbitant passport fees only exacerbates our difficulties.
Having a passport opens up opportunities for work, education, and better living conditions. By making passports unaffordable, the government is effectively closing the door on these opportunities.
Access to documentation is a human right. Just like a birth certificate, a passport is crucial for identity and movement. It should be accessible to all, not just a privileged few.
</blockquote>
Estimates suggest that around 3 million Zimbabweans have migrated to South Africa in recent years, driven by the country’s prolonged economic challenges that have led to a surge in emigration, often referred to as the “great trek” down south.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Takudzwa Muchenje, from Zimbabwe but living in South Africa, is upset about the high price of passports from the Zimbabwean consulate in Johannesburg. The fee is $270, much more than in Zimbabwe. Many Zimbabweans in South Africa are struggling financially and can't afford this high fee. It's important to have a passport for work and education. Many Zimbabweans have moved to South Africa because of problems in Zimbabwe. Muchenje wants the government to lower the price of passports so more people can afford them.

Zimbabwean In South Africa Petitions Against High Passport Fees

Zimbabweans living in South Africa have expressed strong dismay over the passport fees for diasporans announced by the government, and have called for the fees to be lowered.
In a public notice issued on Friday, July 26th, Zimbabwe’s Consul General Eria Phiri announced the new passport application fees for Zimbabweans in South Africa. He said:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage has directed that, all e- passport applications that are processed at the Consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa shall be handled as express/ emergency applications in terms of Statutory Instrument 1 of 2024.
In effect, this means passport application fees for the express/ emergency passport shall be USD250.00 charged at the prevailing USD/ZAR exchange rate with effect from Monday 29 July 2024.
</blockquote>
An ordinary passport that takes seven days to process costs US$150 in Zimbabwe, with an additional US$20 “application fee.”
Zimbabweans based in South Africa will pay the equivalent of US$250 plus the equivalent of US$20 “application fee.”
Debating the issue on “This Morning on Asakhe,” a <a href="https://cite.org.zw/outcry-over-high-e-passport-costs-from-zimbabweans-in-sa/">CITE</a> daily current affairs programme on X, participants said the fee was steep and appealed to the government to reduce it.
A participant, Ndlovu said:
<blockquote>
This fee is exorbitant. I once applied for a passport while I was here and sent the forms back home. There are additional costs like R80 for pictures and R300 for forms, which makes the total amount very high… If only they could reduce it to at least US$170, it would be better.
The government should treat us better; we are struggling here. We appeal for a reduction in this fee.
</blockquote>
Another participant, James, said:
<blockquote>
We are very worried about this price. It’s too much. As someone who travels frequently, raising US$250 is going to be very difficult. In Rands, that amount is a lot.
I don’t know how they justify this amount. The government must help its citizens live better lives. People are not earning enough to afford this.
</blockquote>
Alfred Khumalo said:
<blockquote>
For someone to travel from Johannesburg to Harare to apply for a passport and back, it costs about R2,000 in total. This feels like manipulation.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe’s passport fees are the most expensive in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. An adult passport costs R600 (approximately $33) in South Africa, P260 ($19) in Botswana, and R400 ($23) in Namibia.
In comparison, the Zimbabwean government has set the passport fee for its citizens at $270, which is significantly higher than the fees charged by its regional counterparts.
Zimbabwe’s passport production is being carried out in partnership with Garsu Pasaulis, a Lithuania-registered company owned by Semlex of Belgium.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabweans in South Africa are upset about high passport fees. The government increased fees to USD250 for an express passport. People say it's too expensive. They want the government to lower the price to USD170. Other countries in the region have cheaper passport fees. People are struggling to pay for passports. They want the government to make it easier for them to travel. Zimbabwe's passport production is done with a company from Belgium.

Zimbabweans In South Africa Call On Government To Reduce Passport Fees

Zimbabweans living in South Africa will have to pay a premium fee of $270 to acquire passports, as the government has indicated that their passport applications will be treated as “express” or “emergency” cases.
An ordinary passport that takes seven days to process costs $150 in Zimbabwe, with an additional $20 “application fee.”
However, the Zimbabwean Consulate in Johannesburg has announced that the option to apply for an ordinary passport will not be available to Zimbabweans living in South Africa.
Instead, they will be required to pay $250 (approximately R4,550) plus the application fee of $20 (R364) – the same cost that Zimbabweans in the country pay for emergency passports.
The Zimbabwean government recently started processing passport applications at its consulate in Johannesburg, a move that has now resulted in the implementation of these premium fees for Zimbabweans residing in South Africa.
In a public notice issued on Friday, July 26th, Zimbabwe’s Consul General Eria Phiri announced the new passport application fees for Zimbabweans in South Africa.  He said:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage has directed that, all e- passport applications that are processed at the Consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa shall be handled as express/ emergency applications in terms of Statutory Instrument 1 of 2024.
In effect, this means passport application fees for the express/ emergency passport shall be USD250.00 charged at the prevailing USD/ZAR exchange rate with effect from Monday 29 July 2024.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe’s passport fees are the most expensive in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. An adult passport costs R600 (approximately $33) in South Africa, P260 ($19) in Botswana, and R400 ($23) in Namibia.
In comparison, the Zimbabwean government has set the passport fee for its citizens at $270, which is significantly higher than the fees charged by its regional counterparts.
Zimbabwe’s passport production is being carried out in partnership with Garsu Pasaulis, a Lithuania-registered company owned by Semlex of Belgium.
According to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/rip-off-zimbabweans-in-south-africa-to-pay-270-for-passport/">ZimLive</a>, this contract was granted to Garsu Pasaulis without a public tender process, and the Zimbabwean government has refused to disclose the share of revenue the company collects from each printed passport.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabweans in South Africa will have to pay $270 for passports, much more expensive than other countries like South Africa. The government says applications will be treated as "express" or "emergency" cases. Normal passports cost $150 in Zimbabwe, but Zimbabweans in South Africa will have to pay $250 plus a $20 application fee. This change is because passport applications are now being processed in Johannesburg. The company making passports is from Belgium and Lithuania, and there are questions about how much money they make from each passport. The Zimbabwean government has not shared this information.

Zimbabweans In South Africa To Pay Premium Fees For Passports

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Frederick Makamure Shava has urged Zimbabwean citizens based in different parts of South Africa to acquire official documents to regularise their stay in the neighbouring country.
Shava was speaking at the official opening of the new consulate building of Zimbabwe in Johannesburg, situated in Bruma.
The new consulate will be issuing passports, including e-passports, and birth certificates to Zimbabweans residing in South Africa. Said Shava (via <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/politics/zimbabwe-tells-citizens-acquire-passports-regularise-your-stay-and-respect-the-laws-of-south-africa-e9f2a64c-30e8-4124-bb03-b08b2264ef95">IOL</a>):
<blockquote>
On June 18, 2024, in this building, we commenced the rollout of the e-passport delivery platform to our nationals abroad and I am happy that we started in South Africa.
I am pleased to inform you that the system trial run that we conducted on e-passports was a tremendous success.
The e-passport processing centre housed in this building enables Zimbabwean nationals here in South Africa to apply for and obtain this critical document much more conveniently, and quickly – without the middleman.
The trial run ends today with the official launch of the project. The centre has successfully processed a total of 2,146 e-passport applications.
Fellow Zimbabweans in South Africa, I urge you to access these services and ensure that you have the required documentation to reside and work in this country.
By respecting and abiding by the laws of this country, you will be contributing immensely to the good name and image of Zimbabwe, here and beyond, particularly, given the ties between Zimbabwe and the Republic of South Africa.
</blockquote>
The newly launched chancery building was handed over to Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to South Africa, David Hamadziripi.
The centre is managed by Zimbabwe’s Consul General in Johannesburg, Eria Phiri.
Hamadziripi said Zimbabwe’s Consulate in Cape Town is being renovated, and would also be producing e-passports in the future. He said:
<blockquote>
I therefore invite Zimbabweans in South Africa to come to the consulate (in Joburg) and apply for birth certificates and passports, and thus ensure that you have the minimum requirements to regularise your stay in this country.
</blockquote>
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, in a message delivered by Ambassador Tebogo Seokolo, Deputy Director General responsible for Africa, said:
<blockquote>
We welcome the launch of the e-passport processing centre in our country, as one of the five centres around the world.
We believe that the launch of this centre will enhance the movement of people and goods, as well as services between our neighbouring countries.
We meet at the seminal moment in South African history when we are celebrating 30 years since the dawn of our democracy in 1994.
I am equally pleased that this year we are also celebrating 30 years since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between our two countries.
Our frequent and consistent interactions bode well with the resolve to continue nurturing our existing relations.
To this effect, the opening of this chancery is as important to us as much as it is to the people of the Republic of Zimbabwe.
I take this opportunity to congratulate you on the opening of this beautiful property and the launch of the e-passport.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabweans living in South Africa are encouraged to get passports and other official documents to stay legally. A new consulate in Johannesburg is now issuing e-passports and birth certificates. This makes it easier for Zimbabweans to get important documents without any middleman. The South African government supports this initiative because it will improve relationships between the two countries. The new consulate building will help many people to regularise their stay in South Africa. It's important to follow the laws of the country you're in.

Acquire Passports And Regularise Your Stay, Zimbabwe Tells Citizens Based In South Africa

The Zimbabwean government on Thursday commissioned a newly refurbished building in Johannesburg, South Africa, where it has started processing e-passports for its citizens residing in that country.
The official opening ceremony was attended by several high-level Zimbabwean officials, including Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Ambassador Frederick Shava, Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe, and Local Government and Public Works Minister Daniel Garwe. Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to South Africa, David Hamadziripi, was also present.
South Africa was represented at the event by International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola.
In his remarks at the ceremony, Minister Shava stated that the Zimbabwean government is committed to improving and modernizing the country’s public infrastructure, including its diplomatic and consular properties abroad. He said:
<blockquote>
This comprehensive orientation extends beyond the geographical bounds of Zimbabwe as encapsulated in our country’s foreign policy thrust of ‘reaffirmation, engagement and re-engagement’.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, under my stewardship, is thus mandated by His Excellency the President to place at the centre of its priorities, the pursuit of friendship with all nations, economic diplomacy and the welfare of the Zimbabwean diaspora community across the world.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwean Consulate in Johannesburg, which houses the e-passport centre, recently announced a significant change in its payment policy for e-passport services.
In a public notice, the Consulate said with effect from Monday, 22 July 2024, it would begin accepting electronic card payments for the e-passport fee.
The fee will be charged in the Rand equivalent of US$170, calculated based on the previous week’s average USD/ZAR exchange rate. It said:
<blockquote>
Please be advised that with effect from Monday, 22 July 2024, the Consulate will start accepting electronic card payments for the e-passport fee, i.e. the Rand equivalent of USD170, calculated on the basis of the previous week’s average USD/ZAR exchange rate.
However, the administrative fee of R300.00 will still continue to be paid exclusively in cash. The above measure has been introduced for public safety and convenience.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government of Zimbabwe has opened a new e-passport center in Johannesburg, South Africa, for its citizens living there. Many important officials attended the opening ceremony. The government aims to improve its public infrastructure, including consulates in other countries. The e-passport fee will now be paid using electronic card payments, with the amount in South African Rand equivalent to $170. This change was made for the safety and convenience of the public. This new system will start from July 22, 2024.

Govt Commissions Johannesburg E-Passport Centre

The Zimbabwean Consulate in Johannesburg has announced a significant change in its payment policy for e-passport services, effective Monday, 22 July 2024.
According to a public notice issued by the Consulate, starting from the aforementioned date, the Consulate will begin accepting electronic card payments for the e-passport fee.
The fee will be charged in the Rand equivalent of US$170, calculated based on the previous week’s average USD/ZAR exchange rate. It said:
<blockquote>
Please be advised that with effect from Monday, 22 July 2024, the Consulate will start accepting electronic card payments for the e-passport fee, i.e. the Rand equivalent of USD170, calculated on the basis of the previous week’s average USD/ZAR exchange rate.
However, the administrative fee of R300.00 will still continue to be paid exclusively in cash. The above measure has been introduced for public safety and convenience.
The Consulate further wishes to advise members of the public that due to circumstances beyond its control, it will be closed for business on Wednesday, 24 and Thursday, 25 July 2024, respectively. The Consulate will resume operations on Friday, 26 July 2024.
For further interaction with the Consulate on issues of mutual interest, please use the following official channels: –
<ul>
<li>Facebook page: Zimbabweconsulate Boeing Road Bedfordview</li>
<li>Twitter: Zimbabweconsulatejhb</li>
<li>Email: adminezirnbabweconsulate.co.za</li>
<li>Website: www.zimbabweconsulate.co.za</li>
<li>Hotline/ Emergency Line: .27664873806</li>
</ul>
Please note that the Zimbabwe Embassy in Pretoria and the two Consulates, namely; Zimbabwe Consulate in Johannesburg and the Zimbabwe Consulate in Cape Town do not have agents who act on their behalf.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Zimbabwean Consulate in Johannesburg will now accept electronic card payments for e-passport fees starting July 22, 2024. The fee will be in Rand equivalent of US$170. The administrative fee of R300.00 will still be paid in cash. The change is for public safety and convenience. The Consulate will be closed on July 24 and 25, 2024, and will reopen on July 26, 2024.

Zimbabwean Consulate In Johannesburg Introduces Electronic Payments For E-Passport Fees

The electronic passport (e-passport) registry office in Gokwe South District has commenced issuing passports to the public.
The new office, which was completed just last month, is the third passport issuance centre in Midlands Province, complementing the existing passport offices in Gweru and Zvishavane.
The Zvishavane passport office serves the upper parts of Midlands Province as well as some areas in Masvingo and Matabeleland South provinces.
The newly opened Gokwe South office caters to the southern region of Midlands and also covers parts of Matabeleland North, particularly Binga District, and the Sanyati area of Mashonaland West.
Speaking during a recent visit to the Gokwe passport office, Midlands Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister, Owen Ncube, said (via <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/gokwe-e-passport-office-now-operational/">Chronicle</a>):
<blockquote>
It gives me great pleasure to tour the state-of-the-art Gokwe South e-passport office, which resonates with the Second Republic under the able and visionary leadership of His Excellency, President Mnangagwa’s desire and commitment to deal with backlogs, long winding queues, middlemen and high travelling costs by bringing services closer.
The e-passport office dovetails with the Second Republic’s industrialisation and modernisation trajectory as it encompasses the digital economy and devolution and decentralisation agenda through the provision of online civil registry services and uplifting the livelihoods of previously marginalised communities.
</blockquote>
The Civil Registry Department also opened e-passport offices in Johannesburg, South Africa to cater for the diaspora community and similar developments are underway in the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates and United States of America.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A new electronic passport office is now open in Gokwe South District. It is the third in Midlands Province, after Gweru and Zvishavane. The Gokwe office serves the southern region of Midlands and parts of Matabeleland North and Mashonaland West. The office aims to reduce backlogs, queues, and costs by providing services closer to the people. The office is part of President Mnangagwa's plan for modernization and decentralization. There are also e-passport offices in Johannesburg and plans for more in the UK, UAE, and USA for Zimbabweans living abroad.

Gokwe E-Passport Office Now Operational

The Government has pledged to exercise extra due diligence in the issuance of passports within South Africa and other foreign countries, to ensure that such documents are only provided to bona fide Zimbabwean citizens.
This was said by Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona, who was acting Leader of Government business in Parliament on Wednesday, June 26.
In response to a question from Silobela Member of Parliament Jonah Nyevera of ZANU PF, who had inquired about the measures implemented by the Government to ensure that only Zimbabwean citizens benefit from the facility, Minister Mhona said:
<blockquote>
I want to assure the August House that we have our Embassy in that respective country, where they do due diligence before issuance of passports.
Whatever they will be doing in the foreign land, they will be corresponding with officials in Zimbabwe and in this particular case, our headquarters here in Harare.
I want to assure the Honourable Member that transparency, accountability and due diligence will be upheld.
</blockquote>
The Consul-General at Zimbabwe’s Embassy in Johannesburg Eria Phiri recently revealed that the consulate was conducting a trial run of the electronic passport (e-passport) processing centre. He said:
<blockquote>
The trial run will allow the Consulate to gauge the level of system responsiveness and effectiveness in a real-world environment before the full rollout to the public.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Govt Pledges Due Diligence In Passport Issuance In South Africa

Statement by the Consul-General at Zimbabwe’s Embassy in Johannesburg Eria Phiri on Consulate relocation and the roll-out of the e-passport processing centre:
<blockquote>
CONSULATE RELOCATION/ CHANGE OF PHYSICAL ADDRESS AND UPDATE ON THE ROLL OUT OF THE E-PASSPORT PROCESSING CENTRE IN JOHANNESBURG
Reference is made to the above captioned and the Consulate’s Public Notice dated 15 June 2024 on the rollout of the E-Passport Processing Centre in Johannesburg.
The Consulate wishes to advise members of the public that it will relocate from 13A Boeing Road West, Bedfordview, Johannesburg to 20 Ernest Oppenheimer Road, Bruma, Johannesburg with effect from 24 June 2024.
Please be further advised that the System Test/Trial Run period has been extended from 21 June 2024 until further notice.
As already communicated in our previous Public Notice dated 15 June 2024, clients interested in participating in the trial run should take note of the following conditions, prior to visiting the Consulate (at its new address): –
1. The Cost of the E-Passport in Johannesburg: – In compliance with Statutory Instrument 1 of 2024 (Citizenship (Passport Fees) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 (No.1) the cost of the Ordinary Passport shall be USD150.00 converted to South African Rands on the basis of the previous week’s average USD/ZAR exchange rate.
2. An additional fee of USD20 shall be charged for every electronically readable passport application to obtain a quick response (QR) code (the same conversion rate as in 1 above shall apply.
3. The E-Passport application requirements will be as follows:
<ul>
<li>Original Birth Certificate</li>
<li>Original Identity Document (ID), (metal, plastic or paper IDs are acceptable).</li>
<li>Passport, needed if it is valid. It is not required if it is expired.</li>
<li>Original Marriage Certificate (for married women).</li>
</ul>
N.B: Photos/pictures are not required when applying for an E- Passport.
4. Turn-Over Period/Date of Collection of the E-Passport in Johannesburg: the E-Passport is expected to be ready for collection at the Consulate (at its new address) after seven (7) working days.
Please take note that the trial run will run parallel to the old passport application system.
For further interaction with the Consulate on issues of mutual interest, please use the following official channels: –
<div class="in_article">
<div>
<ul>
<li>Facebook page: Zimbabweconsulate Boeing Road Bedfordview</li>
<li>Twitter: Zimbabweconsulatejhb</li>
<li>WhatsApp: +27828249435</li>
<li>Email: admin@zimbabweconsulate.co.za</li>
<li>Website: www.zimbabweconsulate.co.za</li>
<li>Hotline/ Emergency Line: +27664873806</li>
</ul>
Please note that the Zimbabwe Embassy in Pretoria and the two Consulates, namely: Zimbabwe Consulate in Johannesburg and the Zimbabwe Consulate in Cape Town, do not have agents who act on their behalf.
</div>
</div>
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe's Consulate In Joburg Relocated, E-Passport Trial Run Period Extended

The Zimbabwean Consulate in Johannesburg, South Africa, is conducting a trial run of the electronic passport (e-passport) processing centre.
In a public notice, the Consul-General at Zimbabwe’s Embassy in Johannesburg Eria Phiri said the the roll-out of the e-Passport Processing Centre will be in two stages. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
<h2>ROLLOUT OF THE E-PASSPORT PROCESSING CENTRE AT THE CONSULATE IN JOHANNESBURG</h2>
Reference is made to our Public Notice dated 15 March 2024 on the roll-out of the e-Passport Processing Centre in Johannesburg.
The Consulate is pleased to advise that it has begun the gradual and phased rollout of the e-Passport application process. The rollout will be in two stages and the anticipated timelines will be as follows: –
<h2>Phase 1: System Test/ Trial Run</h2>
The rollout is currently in its first phase, which entails preliminary processes, among them; the training of Consulate staff (successfully concluded on 15 June 2024) and the System Test/ Trial Run period, which is scheduled to commence from 18 to 21 June 2024.
The trial run period will be open to a limited number of clients, randomly chosen from the existing pool of clients visiting the Consulate at 13 A Boeing Road West, Bedfordview, for passport application under the outgoing system.
The trial run will allow the Consulate to gauge the level of system responsiveness and effectiveness in a real-world environment before the full rollout to the public.
<h2>Phase 2: Full rollout and opening of the e-Passport Processing Centre to all members of the public.</h2>
Before the conclusion of the System Test/ Trial Run Period, i.e. 21 June 2024, the Consulate will issue another public notice with information on the operationalization of the e-Passport Centre to all members of the public.
Clients interested in participating in the System Test/ Trial Run during the period 18 to 24 June 2024, should take note of the following conditions, prior to visiting the Consulate: –
1. The Cost of the e-Passport in Johannesburg: In compliance with Statutory Instrument 1 of 2024 (Citizenship (Passport Fees) (Amendment) Regulations, 2024 (No.1) the cost of the Ordinary Passport shall be USD150.00 converted to South African Rands on the basis of the previous week’s average USD/ZAR exchange rate.
2. An additional fee of USD20 shall be charged for every electronically readable passport application to obtain a quick response (QR) code (the same conversion rate as in 1 above shall apply.
3. The e-Passport application requirements will be as follows:
<ul>
<li>Original Birth Certificate</li>
<li>Original Identity Document (ID), (metal, plastic or paper IDs are acceptable).</li>
<li>Passport, needed if it is valid. It is not required if it is expired.</li>
<li>Original Marriage Certificate (for married women).</li>
</ul>
4. Turn-Over Period/Date of Collection of the e-Passport in Johannesburg; the e-Passport is expected to be ready for collection at the Consulate after seven (7) working days.
5. The mode of payment for the e-Passport will be communicated to all participants on selection.
Please take note that the trial run will run parallel to the old passport application system.
For further interaction with the Consulate on issues of mutual interest, please use the following official channels: –
<ul>
<li>Facebook page: Zimbabweconsulate Boeing Road Bedfordview</li>
<li>Twitter: Zimbabweconsulatejhb</li>
<li>WhatsApp: +27828249435</li>
<li>Email: admin@zimbabweconsulate.co.za</li>
<li>Website: www.zimbabweconsulate.co.za</li>
<li>Hotline/ Emergency Line: +27664873806</li>
</ul>
Please note that the Zimbabwe Embassy in Pretoria and the two Consulates, namely: Zimbabwe Consulate in Johannesburg and the Zimbabwe Consulate in Cape Town, do not have agents who act on their behalf.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Commences Trial Run Of Electronic Passport Processing Centre In Joburg

The Government says it will start processing e-passports at its embassy in South Africa this week, with officials from the Registrar General’s department being deployed to assist consulate staff.
This follows the setting up of the e-passport processing centre in Johannesburg.
In an interview with <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/sa-e-passports-start-this-week/">The Herald</a>, Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Raphael Faranisi, said all was in place to start the issue of e-passports in South Africa from this week. He said:
<blockquote>
Staff from the registrar’s office will this week be travelling to our South African Embassy to train the consulate staff on how to process e-passports.
The Foreign Affairs and International Trade Ministry was doing renovations at the consulate, but it is now complete. So, this week, while training the consulate staff, they will also be issuing the e-passports.
Within two weeks, issuing e-passports would be in full swing.
</blockquote>
The Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage will officially commission the office on a date to be announced.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwean Embassy In South Africa To Start E-Passport Processing This Week

Long queues have resurfaced at the Civil Registry offices in Bulawayo as hundreds of citizens including those residing outside the country but are back home for the holidays apply for passports and other vital national identity documents.
The sudden increase in the number of people applying for passports has also been attributed to the hike in passport fees from US$120 to US$150 for ordinary passports, with effect from January 2024.
Butholezwe Sibindi, who is based in South Africa, on Tuesday told the <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/documents-dash-scores-rush-to-beat-january-passport-fee-hike/">Chronicle</a> that he had been queuing since Friday last week. He said:
<blockquote>
I came from South Africa with the hope that things had improved but alas it is still the same story.
This is disappointing because I have been stuck in these long queues for days instead of spending quality time with my family.
</blockquote>
Leeroy Khumalo claimed that Civil Registry staff were prioritising those applying for emergency passports and deliberately ignoring ordinary passport applicants.
Another applicant, Sithabisiwe Ngwenya said it appears as if the workers were on a go-slow. She said:
<blockquote>
This is a tiresome process and although we are aware that they have extended the working hours, their pace is slow.
What is the point of extending when they are going to just serve a few people?
</blockquote>
The Civil Registry Department recently issued a statement saying it was extending the working hours of all its e-passport offices. It said:
<blockquote>
The Civil Registry Department wishes to advise its valuable clients that it has extended its working hours in the passport section with immediate effect.
The passport offices will be open from Monday to Friday from 7 am to 7 pm during weekdays and from 8 am to 3 pm on Saturdays.
</blockquote>
E-passports are issued in Harare, Bulawayo, Chinhoyi, Gwanda, Gweru, Lupane, Marondera, Beitbridge, Chipinge, Chitungwiza, Hwange, Mazowe, Mwenezi and Zvishavane civil registry offices.
The Registrar General Henry Machiri said during the festive season, the number of passport applicants increases. He said:
<blockquote>
The festive season is our busiest in terms of passport applications, and most of our citizens who are in the diaspora want to apply for documents.
Schools have closed and so we are expecting all these people to be coming now since they need to be there physically for biometrics.
So, the number will increase since most people want to beat the deadline to avoid paying more money.
In the proposed national budget, the fees for passports will increase in the coming month and some people want to beat the deadline and submit their applications now.
</blockquote>
The Zimbabwean passport is arguably the most expensive in the SADC region after a deal by the Government awarding Garsu Pasaulis a tender to process the new e-passports in 2021.
In 2021, South Africa charged R400, equivalent to US$25, while Botswana charged P260 (US$25) for a passport. 
Namibia’s passport was priced at R400 (or US$25), and Mozambique was charging 2500 meticais (about US$40).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Long, Winding Queues Resurface At Passport Offices

Hundreds of people were left stranded at the Registrar-General’s (RG) office following the alleged unavailability of paper used to produce the newly-introduced e-passports, NewZimbabwe.com reported.
A source at the RG’s Office told the publication that they had stopped producing the e-passports because of a glitch. The source is cited as saying:
<blockquote>
There is no paper and the contractors contracted to produce the e-passports have not been paid.
</blockquote>
This would be the second time Zimbabwe’s e-passport processing system has run aground in two months with authorities unsure of when the crisis will be over.
Last month, the Registrar General, Henry Machiri said they <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/registrar-general-speaks-on-challenges-in-the-issuance-of-passports/">had experienced challenges</a> in the issuance of vital civil registration and travel documents due to a technical fault. 
The <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/electronic-passport-launch-set-for-today/">government launched the e-passport</a> in December 2021 in a development that saw Garsu Paulis getting the nod to produce modern passports that comply with global aviation benchmarks. 
Authorities say the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/zimbabwe-clarifies-on-e-passport-application-expiry-of-current-passport/">non-biometric Zimbabwean passports will remain valid</a> until they expire in December 2023.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Hundreds Left Stranded As Registrar's Office Halts e-Passport Production

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has said e-passport bio-enrolment centres in the country will be increased to 14 next month.
Currently, e-passports are issued in Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Chitungwiza, Hwange, Lupane and Beitbridge and Murehwa.
Writing in his weekly column in the Sunday News and Sunday Mail, Mnangagwa said the ultimate goal is to have a facility in each of the country’s 59 districts. He said:
<blockquote>
Our eyes are now trained on the availability of passports and other travel documents, both to citizens here at home and to those living in the diaspora.
Through an inventive panoply of measures, we have now taken, I am confident all the rights and benefits related to citizen documentation as promised by Chapter 3 of our Constitution will be efficiently met and delivered to our citizens.
The measures we have taken include introducing e-passports which are cheaper, and faster and which incorporate international features and standards as recommended by the United Nations.
</blockquote>
A couple of months ago, the President opened the e-passport bio-enrolment centre in Murehwa. He said:
<blockquote>
As I write, seven other centres which include Beitbridge, Hwange, Bulawayo, Lupane, and Gweru among others, are already issuing e-passports.
By the end of September this year, we expect the number of such service centres to rise to 14, with the momentum being maintained until all the districts are covered.
We are extending such services to Zimbabwe’s key embassies and consulates in countries where large communities of Zimbabweans living abroad are found.
Already, work has started in Pretoria, Johannesburg and Cape Town, so the large community of Zimbabwean emigres living there will be served.
</blockquote>
An e-passport contains an electronic chip, which holds the same information that is printed on the passport’s data page, which includes the holder’s name, date of birth and other biographic information.
The document also contains a biometric identifier. All of these features are designed to protect citizens from identity theft.
More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/e-passport-centres-to-increase-to-14/">Chronicle</a>

E-passport Centres To Increase To 14 By September - ED

The Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Kazembe, on Wednesday, launched and opened the Bulawayo e-passport Bio-enrolment centre for issuance of passports.
Speaking at the Bulawayo launch, Kazembe said the decentralisation of the issuance of passports will speed up the processing of travel documents in the country. Said Kazembe:
<blockquote>
Plans are, however, afoot to decentralise e-passport enrolment services to all districts in our drive to take services to the people in line with the dictates of devolution.
… The setting up of infrastructure to establish the e-passport system in Chitungwiza is at an advanced stage of completion.
</blockquote>
Kazembe also said the Civil Registry Department will be embarking on a nationwide mobile registration exercise from 1 April to 30 September 2022.
The exercise will be focusing mainly on the issuance of births, deaths and national identity documents.
Meanwhile, the Civil Registry Department has said its Harare passport office will be open on Saturdays to cater for people applying for the newly-introduced electronic passport (e-passport).
In a statement, the Department said the operating hours will be between 8 AM and 3 PM.
<h4>More: <a href="https://newziana.co.zw/2022/03/23/e-passport-services-launched-in-bulawayo/">New Ziana</a></h4>

Kazembe Launches E-Passport Services In Bulawayo

The Registrar-General’s Office has made it more convenient for Zimbabweans to apply for passports as they can now apply for the newly-introduced e-passport online.
The online passport application system is reportedly capable of serving 20 people every 20 minutes.
Applicants have to pay US$120 for an ordinary passport and US$220 for an emergency passport.
An Express Passport Office Centre was recently opened at the Registrar-General’s Office in Harare to specifically handle online applications.
Speaking to The Sunday Mail, the manager of the Express Passport Office Centre Terence Mutemararo, said:
<blockquote>
When the e-passports were launched last year, it was made clear that they will be two categories of applications: One with a seven-day turnaround which we started with and now we have introduced the Express Centre that issues passports 48 hours from the time of applications.
The main purpose of the Express Centre is to bring convenience to those who need emergency passports. There are a lot of people that might be working but their time is limited, so they can simply book a time and get the passports at their earliest time of convenience.
The major purpose of online booking is to de-congest this place and make sure that people come at their accorded time slots.
It is capable of serving 20 people every 20 minutes given the number of booths we have and the number of people serving inside.
</blockquote>
The online passport system address is <a class="vglnk" href="http://expresscentrezw.com/" rel="nofollow">expresscentrezw.com</a> and it gives instructions on available booking schedules.
The website also gives an applicant further instructions to complete the application process.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/passport-application-goes-online">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Zimbabweans Can Now Apply For Passports Online

The Registrar General’s Office has opened an Express Passport Issuing Office at its Harare offices which allows individuals to complete an application form and collect their passport within 48 hours.
The applications are done through an online booking system, with the document ready for collection within 48 hours. Terence Mutemerarwa, the manager at Express Passport Office, said:
<blockquote>
When the E-passports were launched last year it was made clear that they will be two categories of applications.
The one with a 7 day turn around which we started with and now we have introduced the Express Centre that issues passports in 48 hours from the time of applications.
Applicants use an online booking system to avoid congestion which had characterised these offices.
What it means is that they are now two ways of applying for a passport which is the one which takes 7 days and this one which takes 48 hours.
</blockquote>
The Government said people will be able to apply for the e-passport at more locations within Zimbabwe, starting with Chitungwiza and then followed by Bulawayo.
The Government has “already identified 15 embassies where the online services will be deployed”, with South Africa and the United Arab Emirates (Dubai) among them.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/registrars-office-now-issuing-48-hour-e-passports/">ZBC News</a></h4>

RG's Office Now Issuing 48-hour Electronic Passports

The Government will decentralise the processing of the newly introduced e-passport to every province.
This was said by Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister Kazembe Kazembe while addressing journalists on the sidelines of the Southern Africa Regional Police Chiefs Co-operation Organisation (SARPCO) meeting held in Harare on Wednesday.
Kazembe said the decentralisation of the system will start with Bulawayo Metropolitan province. He said:
<blockquote>
The Bulawayo Registrar-General’s Office is already being equipped with systems capable of processing e-passport applications.
As you are aware we have a partner we have contracted to issue the e-passport, we want to expedite the process so that everyone is not left behind.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/govt-to-decentralise-e-passports">The Sunday Mail</a></h4>

Govt To Decentralise E-passports Processing To Provinces

The Immigration Department has said the new electronic passport (e-passport) is now accepted as an official document at all ports of entry.
Memory Mugwagwa, the Immigration Department’s spokesperson revealed that the specimen of the e-passport had been sent to all borders and immigration officials were now familiar with its features. She said:
<blockquote>
Yes, the passport is acceptable. We have since sent the specimen to all borders and the officers are now conversant with the new security features.
It has enhanced security features, which are not prone to fraudulent activities.
</blockquote>
On 14 December 2021, Zimbabwe launched an e-passport with improved security features to replace the old one. Issuance of e-passports began on 18 January.
However, after the launch, members of the public were advised that the e-passport will be usable at all our ports of entry and exit with effect from Monday, 7 February 2022.
Early this week, the Government relaxed COVID-19 restrictions and opened all land borders to fully vaccinated travellers with valid COVID-19 PCR test certificates.
An e-passport is a conventional passport that has a chip implanted in one of its pages.
The chip contains data or information essential in verifying the identity of the passport.
The information in the chip includes the personal data found on the data page of the passport, the biometrics (physical characteristics that can be used to identify individuals, such as a photograph) of the passport holder, the unique chip identification number, and a digital signature.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/e-passport-now-in-use/">The Herald</a></h4>

Electronic Passport Now In Use

The issuance of electronic passports ( e-passports) commenced on 18 January and the documents will be accepted as official travel documents at all ports of entry, the Civil Registry Department (CRD) has announced.
Addressing the media on Wednesday, Acting Registrar General Henry Machiri said the roll-out of the travel documents has begun and the public will be kept informed on any further developments. Said Machiri:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage through the Civil Registry Department commenced issuance of electronic passports (e-passports) at Central Registry in Harare on January 18, 2022.
Members of the public and all our valued stakeholders are therefore advised that the e-passport will be usable at all our ports of entry and exit with effect from Monday, February 7, 2022.
The nation will be kept informed on any further developments surrounding the ongoing implementation of the e-passport.
</blockquote>
An e-passport is a conventional passport that has a chip implanted in one of its pages.
The chip contains data or information essential in verifying the identity of the passport.
The information in the chip includes the personal data found on the data page of the passport, the biometrics (physical characteristics that can be used to identify individuals, such as a photograph) of the passport holder, the unique chip identification number, and a digital signature.
The ordinary e-passport costs US$100 while an emergency or express e-passport costs US$200.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.chronicle.co.zw/e-passport-comes-into-use/">Chronicle</a></h4>

E-passport To Come Into Use On 7 February

The Government is yet to start the production of electronic passports (e-passports), with the Registrar-General’s office currently doing trial runs.
This was revealed by the Deputy Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Kindness Paradza, in an interview with NewsDay on Wednesday. He said:
<blockquote>
They (e-passports) are not yet issued, but there are logistics that are being done. The Minister of Home Affairs, Hon Kazembe Kazembe will issue a full statement next week about it. But everything is on course. Currently, they are doing trial runs.
</blockquote>
The E-Passport was launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa last month. The document comes with more security features in order to protect against identity theft and counterfeiting of travel documents.
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage said the Government was working with Garsu Pasaulis (GP) in the production of e-passports and on other vital civil registration documents.
The ordinary e-passport will cost US$100 while an emergency or express e-passport will cost US$200.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/01/govt-delays-e-passports-rollout/">NewsDay</a></h4>

Electronic Passports Rollout Delayed

Government Tuesday clarified the e-passport application process, adding that the current Zimbabwean passports will remain valid until they expire in December 2023.
The Home Affairs Ministry said the online application for passports was open for both normal and electronic passports. Said the ministry:
<blockquote>
The normal passport application procedure is going on and non-biometric passports will work until they expire.
In line with the COVID-19 restrictions and your convenience, issuance of biometric or e-passports is only done online. Anyone can apply for a biometric passport whether your passport has expired or you have it or you have applied before as long as you are a Zimbabwean citizen.
</blockquote>
The e-passport US$20 or $2 400 application fees have to be deposited with CBZ Holdings or First Capital Bank.
This was after the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights challenged a decision by the government to grant CBZ Holdings monopoly to collect the fees.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa launched the e-passport on December 14. An ordinary e-passport costs US$100 and an emergency one costs US$200.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/12/current-passports-valid-until-they-expire/">NewsDay Zimbabwe</a>

Zimbabwe Clarifies On e-Passport Application, Expiry Of Current Passport

The opposition MDC Alliance (MDC-A) has urged the government to ensure that the roll-out of the electronic passport (e-passport), is done in a transparent manner without policy inconsistencies.
In a statement this Tuesday, MDC Alliance national spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere accused the Government of introducing the e-passport in a manner that violates the principles of administrative justice. Said Mahere:
<blockquote>
The MDC Alliance is extremely concerned at the latest move by Mr Mnangagwa’s regime to introduce a new e-passport in a manner that does not comply with the principles of administrative justice established in section 68 of the Constitution.
We have consistently challenged the regime’s penchant for dodgy deals and the failure to comply with due process and a transparent tender regime in the award of public contracts including this very passport production one.
</blockquote>
According to Statutory Instrument 273 of 2021, the ordinary e-passport will cost US$100 while an emergency or express e-passport will cost US$200.
The SI also stated that a nominal fee of US$20 shall be charged for every passport application fee processed at any CBZ Bank Branch Countrywide.
Mahere criticised the monopolisation of the collection of passport application fees by the Commercial Bank of Zimbabwe which she said is “associated with the regime”. She said:
<blockquote>
We further take issue with the fact that a bank associated with the regime has been awarded a statutory monopoly to collect passport application fees.
We are further told that the old passport will be phased out in 2023 despite earlier undertakings that all passports would be allowed to run their course.
These contradictory messages are clumsy and unacceptable. The policy confusion betrayed in this regard is not only grossly unreasonable but erodes the already depleted trust the people have in the system.
Certainty, efficiency and rational decision-making are core tenets of good governance that the Constitution obliges public officials to adhere to.
</blockquote>
Mahere reminded the Government that it is bound by the law to widely consult stakeholders before launching basic public services. She added:
<blockquote>
We urge the regime in Harare to conduct wide consultations with stakeholders as required by law before the rollout of basic public services and to ensure that corrupt practices are investigated and eradicated.
Under an MDC Alliance Govt, the welfare and best interests of the people will return to all administrative decision making.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Tuesday launched the country’s electronic passport at the registry offices at Chiwashira Building.
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

MDC Alliance Demands Transparency In Electronic Passport Roll-out

The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage on Monday announced that President Emmerson Mnangagwa will launch the Electronic Passport (E-Passport) today (Tuesday).
In a statement, the Ministry said upon the expiry of valid traditional passports (non-electronic), citizens will require to get e-passports.
On Tuesday, the Government promulgated Statutory Instrument 273 of 2021 which stipulated the cost of the new electronic passports.
According to the SI, the ordinary e-passport will cost US$100 while an emergency or express e-passport will cost US$200.
Through the regulations, the Government has given passport holders until 31 December 2023 to swap their passports for e-passports.
<h4>What is an electronic passport (e-passport)?</h4>
An e-passport is a conventional passport that has a chip implanted in one of its pages.
The chip contains data or information essential in verifying the identity of the passport.
The information in the chip includes the personal data found on the data page of the passport, the biometrics (physical characteristics that can be used to identify individuals, such as a photograph) of the passport holder, the unique chip identification number, and a digital signature.
The chip can be read by any standard border control machine worldwide.
<h4>What are the advantages of an e-passport?</h4>
All the features embedded within the chip protects the holder against identity theft through cloning, remote reading and counterfeiting of travel documents. In other, the use of e-passports prevents reproduction and tampering.
The e-passport facilitates fast clearance of travellers at immigration checks and faster travel arrangements with airlines.
Through the use of the Automated Fingerprint Verification System (AFIS), the issuance of multiple passports to the same person is avoided.
The e-passport also enhances border protection and security for countries.
How much does an ePassport cost?
The ordinary e-passport will cost US$100 while an emergency or express e-passport will cost US$200.
A nominal fee of US$20 shall be charged for every passport application fee processed at any CBZ Bank Branch Countrywide.
Where can I apply for an ePassport?
The Government is yet to announce how citizens can apply for the e-passport. President Mnangagwa was expected to launch the electronic passport on Tuesday (today).
Are the traditional passports still valid?
SI 273 of 2021 stipulates that current passports will expire at the end of 2023, that is, two years from now, while a statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage on Monday says the passport will be valid until they expire.
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>, <a href="http://www.philippinesguam.org/news/1771/589/ePassport-FAQ/d,phildet/">Embassy of the Philippines, Washington D.C.</a></h4>

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) On Electronic Passports (E-Passports)

The Government has promulgated Statutory Instrument (SI) 273 of 2021 – the Citizenship Act (Passport Fees) Regulations, 2021 – which stipulates the application fees for electronic passports (e-passports).
The new regulations state that the ordinary e-passport will cost US$100 while an emergency or express e-passport will cost US$200.
<blockquote>
SI 273 of 2021 also said the “current type of passports, issued before the date of operation of these regulations, will cease to be acceptable internationally by 31st December 2023, and will therefore need to be replaced by e-passports in terms of these regulations.”
</blockquote>
However, the regulations create confusion as they stipulate that current passports will expire at the end of 2023, that is, two years from now, while a statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage on Monday says the passport will be valid until they expire, which could be before or after 31 December 2023.
<ul>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/12/14/govt-announces-electronic-passport-e-passport-application-fees/">Govt Announces Electronic Passport (E-Passport) Application Fees</a></li>
<li class="entry-title"><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/12/14/electronic-passport-launch-set-for-today/">Electronic Passport Launch Set For Today</a></li>
</ul>
The Home Affairs Ministry said all valid traditional passports (non-electronic) remain in use but when they expire and have to be renewed, citizens will be required to get e-passports. The statement read in part:
<blockquote>
In the meantime, all valid traditional passports remain in use. However, upon expiry of the traditional non-electronic passport, our citizens will require to get e-passports on renewal of their travel documents, in line with the ICAO [the International Civil Aviation Organisation] guidelines.
</blockquote>
While ordinarily, the law (SI 273 of 2021) supersedes the statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, there is a need for the Government to articulate its position clearly without leaving citizens speculating on the way forward.
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Confusion Surrounds Expiry Date Of Traditional Passports

The Government has given passport holders until 31 December 2023 to swap their passports for a new electronic passport (e-passport).
According to Statutory Instrument 273 of 2021, the ordinary e-passport will cost US$100 while an emergency or express e-passport will cost US$200.
A nominal fee of US$20 shall be charged for every passport application fee processed at any CBZ Bank Branch Countrywide. SI 273 of 2021 reads in part:
<blockquote>
IT is hereby notified that the Minister has in terms of section 22 of the Citizenship of Zimbabwe Act (Chapter 4:01), made the following regulations:
… The Minister hereby notifies that henceforth the Government will cease the issuance of the current type of passports and in place thereof will be issuing electronically readable passports (e-passports) whose charges are as specified in the Schedule.
The current type of passports, issued before the date of operation of these regulations, will cease to be acceptable internationally by 31st December 2023, and will therefore need to be replaced by e-passports in terms of these regulations.
The Citizenship (Passport Fees) Regulations, 2021, published in Statutory Instrument 201 of 2021, are hereby repealed.
</blockquote>
In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage said the Electronic Passport (E-Passport) will be launched by President Emmerson Mnangagwa this Tuesday.
READ MORE: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/12/14/electronic-passport-launch-set-for-today/">Electronic Passport Launch Set For Today</a>
It said the e-passport has more security features in order to protect against identity theft and counterfeiting of travel documents.
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FGjOBv6WYAUUZ8P?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>
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Govt Announces Electronic Passport (E-Passport) Application Fees

President Emmerson Mnangagwa will on Tuesday launch the Electronic Passport (E-Passport) that comes with more security features in order to protect against identity theft and counterfeiting of travel documents.
In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage said the Government was working with Garsu Pasaulis (GP) in the production of the electronic passport and on other vital civil registration documents.
The Ministry said all valid traditional passports (non-electronic) remain in use but when they expire and have to be renewed, citizens will be required to get e-passports. Below is the statement by the Ministry of Home Affairs on e-passports:
<blockquote>
LAUNCH OF THE ELECTRONIC PASSPORT, BY HIS EXCELLENCY, THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE CDE DR E.D MNANGAGWA
Tomorrow, the 14th of December 2021, marks a historic day as his Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe Coe Dr ED Mnangagwa is set to launch the Electronic Passport (E-Passport), at Chiwashira Building in Harare. 
The Government of Zimbabwe is working with Garsu Pasaulis (GP), who is the implementation partner for the e-passport and the production of other vital civil registration documents, as has been previously stated.
As a state party to Regional and International Conventions, Protocols and Treaties relating to the issuance of civil and travel documents, Zimbabwe’s introduction of the e-passport resonates with global best practices.
The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which is the specialised United Nations agency on aviation security and standards for international travel prescribes member states to adopt measures that safeguard the integrity and security of travel and identity documents.
Zimbabwe’s migration from the traditional passport to the e-passport conforms to the need to implement technology-aided improvements which safeguard immigration.
The launch of the new generation e-passport by His Excellency, constitutes an important milestone for Zimbabwe, as the nation adopts the e-passport which bears more robust security features.
The e-passport will protect the privacy of our citizens given the embedded features which protect against identity theft and counterfeiting of travel documents.
Apart from reasserting individual rights to privacy, the introduction of the e-passport will also provide enhanced security standards at our various Ports of Entry and Exit.
The historic introduction of the e-passport, therefore, reflects the adoption of smart technology by the Civil Registry Department, which is mandated to provide vital civil registration documents.
In the meantime, all valid traditional passports remain in use. However, upon expiry of the traditional non-electronic passport, our citizens will require to get e-passports on renewal of their travel documents, in line with the ICAO guidelines.
The Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, through the Civil Registry Department, will keep the nation informed about any further developments surrounding the implementation of the e-passport programme, as the nation transitions from the use of the traditional non-electronic passports.
</blockquote>
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