Notice period in South Africa: how much notice to resign or dismiss?
3 min read · General information, not legal advice
Quick answer
Under section 37 of the BCEA, the minimum notice is one week if employed for six months or less, two weeks if employed for more than six months but not more than a year, and four weeks after one year. Farm and domestic workers employed for more than six months get four weeks.
Same for both sides
The minimum applies whether the employee resigns or the employer terminates. A contract can set a longer period, but it can't require the employee to give more notice than the employer must give.
Notice must be in writing
Notice must be given in writing, unless it's given by an illiterate employee. Our free resignation letter generator works out the correct notice for you.
Leaving without working notice
An employee who leaves without working notice may forfeit pay for the unworked notice period, and the employer can claim damages. An employer can choose to pay out the notice instead of having the employee work it.
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Employment Contract (BCEA)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the notice period for resignation in South Africa?
One week (first six months), two weeks (six months to a year) and four weeks after a year, unless the contract says longer.
Can notice be given on a Friday?
Notice can be given on any working day, but it can't be given during leave, or be set to run at the same time as annual leave.
Do I get paid during my notice period?
Yes. You are still employed and paid as normal until the last day.
