Welder and Fabricator

As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the national minimum wage is R30.15 per hour effective 1 March 2026. This equates to R5,879 per month based on 195 standard ordinary hours. Overtime is paid at 1.5 times the rate for the first 10 hours per week.

According to Statistics South Africa QLFS data adjusted for 2026, qualified welders earn between R25,000 and R45,000 per month. The median salary is R32,500 for artisan welders with trade test certification. Entry-level positions start at R20,000 per month.

Foreign welders require a General Work Visa from the Department of Home Affairs, needing a job offer from an accredited employer and proof the position was advertised for 3 months on the ESSA database without local hires. The offered salary must be market-related at R28,000 per month minimum for the occupation. Processing fee is R1,520 and takes 8-20 weeks.

A minimum N2 National Certificate in Welding or Mechanical Engineering, plus 18 months structured workplace practical experience or 36 months unstructured confirmed by affidavit, is required for the trade test. Equivalent NCV Level 4 with relevant subjects is accepted. The qualification is at Occupational Certificate Level 4.