CLEANERS AND TEA LADIES

As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the national minimum wage for cleaning staff is R31.65 per hour effective 1 March 2026. This equates to R6,171 per month for a standard 45-hour week over 52 weeks annually. Domestic cleaning staff follow the same hourly rate under Sectoral Determination 7.

Foreigners require a General Work Visa (category 22) for cleaning staff jobs, which needs a job offer from a registered employer and proof no suitable South African worker is available. The application fee is R1,520 and processing takes up to 8 weeks at a VFS centre. SADC nationals may qualify under bilateral agreements but still need Department of Home Affairs approval.

No formal education like matric or prior experience is required for entry-level cleaning staff jobs, as per the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Workers must be at least 16 years old and physically fit for duties. Employers often provide on-the-job training for compliance with occupational health standards.

To register as a work-seeker for cleaning jobs on the Employment Services of South Africa (ESSA) platform, submit a certified ID copy, proof of residential address, and any qualification certificates. A CV and bank statement for UIF purposes are also required. Registration is free and done online or at local labour centres.