How overtime is calculated in South Africa
First find your normal hourly rate: (monthly salary × 12) ÷ (52 × normal weekly hours). The standard working week under the BCEA is 45 hours.
Under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, overtime is paid as follows:
- Weekday & Saturday overtime: 1.5× your normal rate.
- Sunday: 2× — unless you ordinarily work Sundays, then 1.5×.
- Public holidays: 2× (or normal pay plus the day's wage).
Overtime is voluntary, by agreement, and limited to 10 hours per week (max 3 per day).
The earnings threshold
Employees earning above R261 748.45 a year (the threshold from 1 April 2025) fall outside section 10 of the BCEA — they are not entitled to overtime pay and overtime is instead a matter for their contract.
FAQ
- What is the overtime rate in South Africa?
- 1.5× on weekdays and Saturdays; 2× on Sundays and public holidays (1.5× on Sundays if you ordinarily work them).
- How many overtime hours are allowed?
- Up to 10 hours a week, by agreement.
- Does everyone get overtime pay?
- No — employees earning above R261 748.45/year (2025 threshold) aren't entitled to it under the BCEA.
- Is the amount net?
- No, it's gross — before PAYE and UIF.
Source: Basic Conditions of Employment Act, sections 9 & 10; earnings threshold effective 1 April 2025.