National “blitz” numbers that include Western Cape activity (Feb–Mar 2025)

In 2024, the Department of Employment and Labour (DEL), together with Home Affairs and the SAPS, intensified workplace inspections to enforce compliance with the Immigration Act 13 of 2002.

This effort continues in 2025, with the DEL leading national compliance drives.

The Minister reported that 68 employers were arrested and fined R10,000 each (total R680,000), mostly in the Eastern Cape and Mpumalanga, while 322 illegal foreign workers were arrested and processed under immigration laws.

Employers are reminded to verify the legal status of foreign workers, as employing illegal foreigners breaches the Immigration Act.

The DEL urges companies to conduct regular audits and manage non-compliance carefully to avoid penalties, unfair dismissal claims, or disputes before the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).