From 1 March 2026 the national minimum wage for domestic workers in South Africa is R30.23 per hour. Because a worker called in must be paid for at least 4 hours, the daily minimum is R120.92. A worker doing 45 ordinary hours a week earns roughly R5 894 a month at this rate.
The 2026 rate
Effective 1 March 2026, domestic workers must be paid at least R30.23 per hour. This is the same national minimum wage that applies to most other workers — domestic workers reached parity with the general NMW, so there is no longer a lower domestic rate. The minimum changes every year on 1 March.
The 4-hour minimum
Under the BCEA, a worker who reports for work must be paid for at least 4 hours, even if sent home early or given less work. At R30.23 per hour that means a minimum of R120.92 for any day worked.
Working out the monthly equivalent
The minimum wage is set per hour, so the monthly figure depends on the hours worked. A full-time worker on 45 ordinary hours a week works about 195 hours a month (45 × 52 ÷ 12), which is roughly R5 894 a month at R30.23. Always calculate from the hours actually worked rather than assuming a fixed monthly salary.
On top of the wage
The minimum wage is the floor on basic pay only. You must also handle UIF (1% + 1%, up to R177.12 each), paid annual leave (3 weeks a year), sick leave and the correct notice periods. Paying the minimum wage alone does not make you compliant.
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage for a domestic worker in 2026?
R30.23 per hour from 1 March 2026, with a daily minimum of R120.92 because of the 4-hour minimum-payment rule.
What is the monthly minimum wage for a full-time domestic worker?
There is no fixed monthly minimum — it depends on hours. At R30.23/hour, a 45-hour week works out to roughly R5 894 a month (about 195 hours).
Is the domestic worker rate lower than the general minimum wage?
No. Domestic workers are now on the same national minimum wage as other workers — R30.23 per hour from 1 March 2026.
Dignita is a compliance tool, not legal advice. Figures are based on current South African legislation; confirm with a labour-law professional for your situation.