Minimum wage in South Africa (2026)
The statutory minimum wage in South Africa and the net take-home pay it leaves after tax.
The gross minimum wage in South Africa is about ZAR 5,615 per month. After income tax and social contributions that leaves roughly ZAR 5,559 net.
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How salary is taxed in South Africa
Income tax in South Africa is progressive: marginal rates rise from 18% to 45% as income grows. Employees also pay social contributions of around 1% of gross salary. A tax-free allowance of about ZAR 95,750 per year is deducted before income tax. The standard VAT rate is 15%. For example, a gross salary of ZAR 29,490 per month leaves about ZAR 25,183 net, after ZAR 4,012 income tax and ZAR 295 in social contributions, an effective deduction rate of 14.61%.
| Annual taxable income | Tax rate |
|---|---|
| Up to ZAR 237,100 | 18% |
| Up to ZAR 370,500 | 26% |
| Up to ZAR 512,800 | 31% |
| Up to ZAR 673,000 | 36% |
| Up to ZAR 857,900 | 39% |
| Up to ZAR 1,817,000 | 41% |
| ZAR 1,817,000 and above | 45% |
Frequently asked questions
What is the minimum wage in South Africa?
The figures above show the statutory gross minimum wage in South Africa per month, with the net take-home amount after tax and social contributions.
How much is the minimum wage after tax in South Africa?
We apply the current income-tax and social-contribution rates for South Africa to the gross minimum wage to estimate the net monthly pay.
Minimum-wage figures are approximate, based on the latest available official rate.
Approximate 2026 estimate. Simplified model, verify before relying on it. Not tax advice.
Rates updated June 2026