Complete guide to hiring employees legally in South Africa for 2026. Learn employment law requirements, employment contracts, registration obligations, and how to hire employees in compliance with labour laws.
Hiring employees in South Africa requires compliance with employment and labour laws. Understanding employment law requirements, registration obligations, and employment contracts helps you hire employees legally and maintain compliance. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers everything you need to know about hiring employees legally.
Key Legislation:
Employer Obligations:
Must Register For:
Registration Timeline:
Employment Contract Must Include:
Contract Types:
Employment Equity Act:
Requirements:
National Minimum Wage (2026):
Important:
Annual Leave:
Sick Leave:
Maternity Leave:
Occupational Health and Safety:
Before hiring, register for PAYE with SARS, UIF with Department of Labour, COIDA with Compensation Fund, and SDL with SARS if payroll exceeds R500,000 annually.
While not always legally required, written employment contracts are highly recommended. They clarify terms, protect both parties, and help prevent disputes.
National minimum wage is R27.58 per hour in 2026 for most workers. Some sectors have different rates. Check applicable rates for your industry.
Employees are entitled to: 21 days annual leave, 30 days sick leave per 3-year cycle, 4 months maternity leave, and public holidays. Check specific entitlements.
Employers must provide safe working environment, comply with Occupational Health and Safety Act, train employees on safety, maintain safety standards, and report workplace accidents.
Hiring employees legally requires registering for PAYE, UIF, and COIDA before hiring, providing written employment contracts, complying with employment laws, paying at least minimum wage (R27.58/hour in 2026), providing required leave entitlements, ensuring health and safety compliance, and maintaining employment records. Understand all requirements, register before hiring, use proper contracts, and comply with all employment laws. Understanding legal hiring requirements helps you hire employees legally and maintain compliance with South African labour laws.
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Specializing in South African business registration, CIPC compliance, tax requirements, BEE certification, and business law with extensive knowledge of company registration processes.