Chinese people working in South Africa include staff at Chinese state and private companies, employees of Chinese trading firms, shop owners and people working for local employers. In every case you need a visa that allows you to work, and you should understand what South African labour law says about contracts, hours and pay.
Start here
- Finding a job in South Africa: common sectors for Chinese job seekers, job sites, recruiters and visa points to watch.
- South African labour law basics: contracts, minimum wage, working hours, leave and dismissal procedures.
Key things to know
- Visa first, then the job. Foreign nationals need a visa that permits work, and employers must check it. Working on a tourist visa is illegal.
- The national minimum wage is R30.23 an hour. It has applied since 1 March 2026 to almost all workers, including domestic workers (as of October 2026).
- Working hours are capped. Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, ordinary hours may not exceed 45 a week; overtime needs the worker’s agreement and must be paid at the legal rate.
- UIF contributions are compulsory. Employer and employee each normally pay 1% of salary to the Unemployment Insurance Fund, and the employer deducts and pays it over.
- Shop owners are employers too. If you hire local staff, give written contracts, pay on time and follow a fair dismissal process, or you are likely to lose at the CCMA.
Related sections
If your visa is not sorted yet, start with Visas & immigration. For income tax on your salary, see Tax & accounting.
