welder and pipe fitter

As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the national minimum wage is R30.73 per hour effective 1 March 2026. For welders on standard 45-hour weeks, this amounts to R6,012 per month before deductions. Overtime is paid at 1.5 times the rate for the first 10 hours per week.

Foreign welders require a General Work Visa from the Department of Home Affairs, as welding is not on the 2026 Critical Skills List. The application fee is R1,520, and a job offer with minimum salary of R27,500 per month is required. Processing takes 8-10 weeks at a South African embassy.

A minimum NCV Level 4 or N3 Technical Certificate in Welding plus 24 months practical training and passing a trade test is needed for artisan welder status. Entry-level roles require Grade 12 and 12 months workshop experience. All must be registered on the QCTO artisan database.

Register on the ESSA portal with certified ID or passport copy, matric certificate, welding qualification, CV, and proof of experience. For foreigners, include SAQA-verified foreign qualifications and work visa. Applications are free and lead to employer referrals within 14 days.