Registering your business with the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) is a legal requirement for all employers in South Africa. This guide walks you through the UIF registration process, required documents, and key deadlines to ensure compliance.
Who Needs to Register for UIF?
✔ All employers with one or more employees
✔ Domestic employers (household workers)
✔ Temporary and part-time workers (working more than 24 hours/month)
Note: Registration must be done within 14 days of hiring your first employee to avoid penalties.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, prepare:
- Business documents:
- Company registration certificate (CIPC documents)
- SARS income tax reference number
- Employee & director details:
- Certified ID copies of all directors/shareholders
- Employee ID numbers & start dates
- Banking & address proof:
- Business bank account details (canceled cheque/letter from bank)
- Recent utility bill or lease agreement
Step 2: Complete the UI-8 Form
Download the UI-8 form or collect it from your nearest Department of Labour office.
Key sections to fill:
Employer & business details
Employee information (names, ID numbers, start dates)
Banking details for UIF contributions
Step 3: Submit Your Application
You can apply via:
Option 1: Online Registration
- Visit uFiling
- Create an employer profile
- Upload scanned documents & submit
Option 2: In-Person Submission
- Visit your nearest Labour Centre
- Submit the completed UI-8 form + supporting documents
Processing time: 7–14 working days
Step 4: Receive Your UIF Reference Number
Once approved, you’ll get:
- A UIF reference number (used for monthly contributions)
- Login details for uFiling to manage payments & claims
Step 5: Start Paying UIF Contributions
- Contribution rate: 2% (1% from employer + 1% from employee)
- Payment deadline: 7th of each month
- Submit declarations via uFiling
Common UIF Registration Questions
Q: Can I register for UIF without employees?
A: No, registration is only required once you hire staff.
Q: What if I miss the 14-day deadline?
A: Late registration may result in backdated payments + penalties.
Q: Do independent contractors need UIF?
A: Only if they’re formally employed (not freelancers).
Q: How do I check my UIF status?
A: Call the UIF helpline 0800 030 007 or check uFiling.
Avoid These UIF Mistakes
❌ Missing deadlines (registration & monthly payments)
❌ Incorrect employee details (causes claim rejections)
❌ Not keeping records (always save UIF receipts & submissions)
Need Help? Contact UIF Support
- UIF Hotline: 0800 030 007
- Email: uifclaims@labour.gov.za
- Labour Centres: Find your nearest office
Final Tip: Stay compliant by filing monthly UIF returns on time. Non-compliance can lead to fines or legal action.
Updated: July 2025 | South African Labour Laws