The South African government has approved the extension of a special Zimbabwean program allowing them to work, study and live in that country.

Communications Minister Ayanda Dlodlo told journalists that current Zimbabwean special permit holders would be allowed to extend their permits, which expire at the end of December.

Dlodlo said the applicants will be subject to certain conditions to be defined by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

She said, “Cabinet approved that the Department of Home Affairs can reopen the reapplication process for the current Zimbabwe Special Permits holders under certain conditions … The Minister of Home Affairs Professor (Hlengiwe) Mkhize will hold a separate briefing to explain the special conditions and process to be followed.”

The initial special dispensation for Zimbabwe was approved in 2009 to document Zimbabwean nationals, who were living in South Africa illegally.

There are more than three million Zimbabweans said to be living in South Africa.