Government plans fines of up to R100,000 per undocumented worker, to recruit 10,000 labour inspectors

The South African government has proposed heavy penalties for employers who hire undocumented foreign nationals, including fines of up to R100,000 per undocumented worker and an expanded labour inspectorate. The measures form part of a wider package announced by the presidency aimed at tightening immigration enforcement.

What the labour department says

Deputy Minister of Employment and Labour Jomo Sibiya said the department intends to introduce fines of up to R100,000 per undocumented worker for employers found to be hiring illegal migrants. The department also plans to recruit 10,000 labour inspectors to strengthen enforcement of South Africa’s labour and immigration laws.

Broader government measures

President Cyril Ramaphosa outlined several measures in an address to the nation as the government responds to tensions over illegal immigration and recent protests targeting foreign nationals. He said the government would increase penalties including possible imprisonment for employers who contravene the Immigration Act by employing undocumented foreign nationals.

Steps the presidency listed

• Intensifying arrests, inspections, prosecutions and deportations of undocumented migrants.
• Increasing penalties for employers who hire undocumented migrants illegally.
• Strengthening border management through improved technology, infrastructure and personnel.
• Relocating refugee reception centres closer to border posts.
• Combating corruption and introducing biometric-based digital identification systems.
• Phasing out green barcoded ID books and tightening identity verification processes.
• Reforming immigration and labour legislation and introducing quotas for foreign workers.
• Improving regulation of businesses and informal traders.
• Working with African countries and regional organisations to address root causes of migration such as poverty, conflict and limited economic opportunities.

Context and public reaction

Ramaphosa’s address came amid growing tensions over illegal immigration, recent protests targeting foreign nationals and a call for a nationwide shutdown on June 30 demanding the removal of undocumented migrants from the country.

What comes next

The presidency said the measures would be accompanied by changes to legislation and strengthened enforcement. The labour department’s proposed fines and the planned recruitment of additional inspectors form part of the government’s effort to implement the announced steps.