South Africa’s National Minimum Wage (NMW) sets the lowest amount employers can legally pay workers. The rate is reviewed annually and typically increases in March.
Current Minimum Wage (2025)
| Category | Hourly Rate | Monthly (195 hours) |
|---|---|---|
| National Minimum Wage | R27.58 | R5,378.10 |
| Farm workers | R27.58 | R5,378.10 |
| Domestic workers | R27.58 | R5,378.10 |
| EPWP workers | R15.16 | R2,956.20 |
Monthly calculation
The monthly amount is calculated as: hourly rate × 45 hours × 4.33 weeks = monthly wage. This assumes a standard 45-hour work week.
Who Is Covered
The NMW applies to all workers except:
- Members of the South African National Defence Force
- National Intelligence Agency employees
- South African Secret Service employees
- Volunteers who don’t receive payment
Independent contractors are not covered—the NMW applies to employees only.
Sector Variations
While most sectors follow the national minimum, some have different rates set by sectoral determinations:
| Sector | Notes |
|---|---|
| Agriculture | Now aligned with NMW |
| Domestic work | Now aligned with NMW |
| EPWP (Public Works) | Reduced rate applies |
| Taxi industry | Sectoral determination applies |
| Hospitality | NMW + tips policies |
Check your sector
Some industries have Bargaining Council agreements or Sectoral Determinations that may set higher minimum wages. Check at labour.gov.za.
Calculating Compliance
To check if wages meet the minimum:
Minimum monthly = R27.58 × weekly hours × 4.33Examples:
- 45 hours/week: R27.58 × 45 × 4.33 = R5,378.10
- 40 hours/week: R27.58 × 40 × 4.33 = R4,780.54
- 30 hours/week: R27.58 × 30 × 4.33 = R3,585.40
What Counts Toward Minimum Wage
Included:
- Basic wage/salary
- Cash payments
NOT included:
- Tips and gratuities
- Bonuses
- Gifts
- Allowances (transport, housing, tools)
- Overtime pay
- Benefits in kind
Deductions
Employers cannot make deductions that bring the wage below minimum, except for legally required deductions (tax, UIF) or written agreements for specific items.
Employer Obligations
Employers must:
- Pay at least the minimum wage
- Display the NMW poster in the workplace
- Keep accurate wage records
- Pay on regular dates (at least monthly)
- Provide payslips showing hours and rate
Non-Compliance
If an employer pays below minimum wage:
- The employment contract is not void
- The employer must pay the shortfall
- Penalties can apply (fines, prosecution)
- Workers can claim from the CCMA
How to Report Violations
- Contact the Department of Labour: Call 0800 212 711
- Visit a Labour Centre: Find your nearest office
- Lodge a CCMA complaint: For ongoing disputes
- Report online: Via the Department’s portal
Exemptions
Employers can apply for exemptions if:
- They genuinely cannot afford the NMW
- They can demonstrate financial hardship
- They agree to a phase-in plan
Exemptions are temporary (maximum 12 months) and must be approved by the Department of Labour.
Historical Increases
| Year | Hourly Rate | Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | R27.58 | ~6% |
| 2024 | R25.42 | 8.5% |
| 2023 | R23.19 | 9.6% |
| 2022 | R21.69 | 6.9% |
| 2019 | R20.00 | Initial |
Common Questions
Does minimum wage apply to part-time workers?
Yes. Part-time workers must receive the same hourly rate. Their total pay will be less because of fewer hours, but the rate per hour must meet the minimum.
What about workers paid on commission?
Commission-based workers must still receive at least the minimum wage. If commissions don’t reach the minimum, the employer must top up the difference.
Can I be fired for asking about minimum wage?
No. It’s illegal to dismiss or penalize workers for asking about or claiming minimum wage rights.