1 reviews | Active since May 2026
Discriminatory treatment of ZEP permit holders at African Bank Northmead Square
I am deeply disappointed by the treatment I received at African Bank Northmead Square when attempting to open a personal account using my valid ZEP passport.
The consultant assisting me outright refused to process my application, claiming that my permit had “expired,” despite the official extension issued by the Minister of Home Affairs clearly extending the validity of ZEP documentation until May 2027.
What is most concerning is that the consultant completely ignored the current legal position and made no effort to verify the official directive. This reflects either a serious lack of training or blatant ************** against ZEP holders.
As a law-abiding resident with valid documentation recognized by the South African government, I should not be subjected to misinformation, embarrassment, and denial of banking services because staff members are unaware of updated Home Affairs regulations.
African Bank needs to urgently:
1. Properly train staff regarding ZEP extensions and immigration documentation. 2. Ensure customers are treated with dignity and professionalism. 3. Clarify whether the bank officially recognizes the Home Affairs extension or whether branches are simply making up their own rules.
I expect African Bank to investigate this incident at the Northmead Square branch and provide feedback on why I was unfairly turned away despite presenting legally valid documentation.
Very disappointing experience.
We hope to talk to you soon.
Your African Bank Support Specialist team
We hope to talk to you soon.
Your African Bank Support Specialist team
I am glad I discovered this before committing to a discriminatory bank. The Minister never said that Zimbabweans cannot open new bank accounts in South Africa. Please use facts, not misinformation.
You had every right to simply state that you do not wish to open accounts for Zimbabweans, instead of falsely claiming that the Minister prohibited new account openings. Providing inaccurate information to customers is unprofessional and misleading.
I expect banks to base their decisions and communication on facts, not on statements that were never made.
I am glad I discovered this before committing to a discriminatory bank. The Minister never said that Zimbabweans cannot open new bank accounts in South Africa. Please use facts, not misinformation.
You had every right to simply state that you do not wish to open accounts for Zimbabweans, instead of falsely claiming that the Minister prohibited new account openings. Providing inaccurate information to customers is unprofessional and misleading.
I expect banks to base their decisions and communication on facts, not on statements that were never made.
We sincerely apologise for the experience you had and for any frustration caused by the communication you received. African Bank is committed to treating all customers fairly and ensuring that information provided is accurate and consistent.
African Bank does not discriminate based on nationality. All account applications are assessed in line with regulatory requirements, including FICA.
While ZEPs may be accepted to update the records of existing customers, they are not accepted for opening new MyWorld accounts. For new account applications, a valid passport together with a valid, unexpired permit is required. This approach is based on compliance and risk considerations and applies consistently to all applicants.
We respect your decision not to proceed at this time. However, should you wish to engage with us again in future once the applicable requirements are met, we will be pleased to assist you.
Your African Bank Support Specialist team
We sincerely apologise for the experience you had and for any frustration caused by the communication you received. African Bank is committed to treating all customers fairly and ensuring that information provided is accurate and consistent.
African Bank does not discriminate based on nationality. All account applications are assessed in line with regulatory requirements, including FICA.
While ZEPs may be accepted to update the records of existing customers, they are not accepted for opening new MyWorld accounts. For new account applications, a valid passport together with a valid, unexpired permit is required. This approach is based on compliance and risk considerations and applies consistently to all applicants.
We respect your decision not to proceed at this time. However, should you wish to engage with us again in future once the applicable requirements are met, we will be pleased to assist you.
Your African Bank Support Specialist team