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HR & Employment

Hiring Your First Employee: What SA Law Requires

Taking on your first employee is exciting but comes with legal obligations. From employment contracts to UIF registration, here is your complete checklist.

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Xage HR Team

Xage Editorial Team

๐Ÿ“… 10 March 2026 ยท โฑ 1 min read ยท ๐Ÿ‘ 1 views
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Before You Hire

Register as an Employer

  • SARS: Register for PAYE, UIF, and SDL on eFiling
  • Department of Labour: Register for UIF
  • Compensation Fund: Register for COIDA (workplace injury cover)

The Employment Contract

You must give employees a written contract within 14 days of starting. It must include job description, remuneration, hours, leave entitlements, and notice period.

Minimum Wage

The National Minimum Wage for 2024 is R27.58 per hour.

Leave Entitlements

  • Annual leave: 15 working days per year
  • Sick leave: 30 days over 3 years
  • Family responsibility: 3 days per year
  • Maternity leave: 4 months unpaid

Monthly Payroll Responsibilities

  • Deduct PAYE and pay to SARS by 7th of following month
  • Deduct and pay UIF (1% employee + 1% employer)
  • Issue a payslip every pay period

Get free employment contract templates at templates.xage.co.za.

Need help with your business?

Xage offers free tools and templates for South African businesses.

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