South Africa’s Department of Employment and Labour says employers who hire undocumented foreign nationals will face criminal charges as authorities intensify enforcement amid growing concern over illegal migration and non‑compliance in key sectors.
The warning followed a joint inspection in Cape Town’s central business district where several undocumented workers were arrested at a construction site during an operation involving the department, Home Affairs, the South African Police Service and other law‑enforcement agencies.
Department spokesperson Teboho Thejane said “the construction industry remains a major area of concern, with employers routinely hiring undocumented migrants in violation of the Migration Act.”
“Contravention of the Migration Act is a serious crime, and those found to have contravened that act will then face relevant charges,” Thejane said.
He emphasised that “employers found to have contravened the law would be charged by Home Affairs, which oversees immigration enforcement.”
South Africa has long grappled with high numbers of undocumented migrants, particularly from neighbouring countries, a challenge that has fuelled political tensions, community protests and periodic outbreaks of xenophobic violence.
Authorities have stepped up workplace inspections in recent years, arguing that the employment of undocumented workers undermines labour standards and contributes to exploitation.
AP
