Hiring staff in South Africa: employer obligations
If you employ people in South Africa, employment is governed by the Labour Relations Act & Basic Conditions of Employment Act, with social-security contributions to UIF (1% employer + 1% employee). Put every employee on a written contract from day one, register as an employer, and withhold and remit employee taxes monthly.
Your obligations
- 1 Written employment contracts and statutory minimums under the Labour Relations Act & Basic Conditions of Employment Act.
- 2 Register as an employer and contribute to UIF (1% employer + 1% employee).
- 3 Withhold and remit employee taxes to SARS.
Frequently asked questions
What labour law applies in South Africa?
Employment in South Africa is governed by the Labour Relations Act & Basic Conditions of Employment Act, with contributions to UIF (1% employer + 1% employee).
More on South Africa
- Register a company — South Africa
- Company tax — South Africa
- VAT / sales tax — South Africa
- Start a business — South Africa
- Data protection — South Africa
- Tax clearance — South Africa
- Empowerment / B-BBEE — South Africa
- Licences & permits — South Africa
- Payroll & employee tax — South Africa
- Importing & customs — South Africa
- Annual returns — South Africa
- Full South Africa compliance guide
Hiring staff elsewhere in SADC
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Reviewed June 2026 from official sources. General information only — confirm with SARS or a registered professional.