Artisan: Plumber

As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the national minimum wage is R30.79 per hour effective 1 March 2026, applying to plumbers unless a bargaining council sets higher. A full-time plumber working 45 hours per week earns at least R5,542 gross per month before deductions. Overtime rates are 1.5 times the normal rate for the first 10 hours and double thereafter.

Plumbers require a National N2 Certificate in Plumbing or equivalent, plus a successful trade test under Section 13 of the Manpower Training Act, issued after 36 months of structured apprenticeship. Employers prioritise candidates with a Red Seal endorsement from the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations. No job offers without this certification for qualified roles as of 2026.

Foreign plumbers qualify for the Critical Skills Work Visa as plumbing is listed on the 2026 Critical Skills List, requiring a job offer, SAQA-evaluated qualifications, and police clearance. Processing takes 20-60 working days at R1,520 application fee. The visa is valid for 5 years and leads to permanent residency after 10 years.

Applications require a certified ID or passport copy, matric certificate, trade test certificate from an accredited SETA, and a detailed CV with 3 years verifiable experience. Z83 form must be completed for public service posts via the Employment Services of South Africa portal. Submit by 31 January 2026 deadlines for quarterly intakes.