Nursing is one of the most vital professions in South Africa, providing essential healthcare services across hospitals, clinics, homes, and communities. But many people don’t realise there are different types of nurses — each with their own roles, responsibilities, qualifications, and salaries.
If you are planning a nursing career, or you want to understand how much nurses earn in South Africa in 2025, this guide is for you.
In this detailed article, we’ll explain the types of nurses in South Africa and their salaries in rands, what each type does, how to qualify, and the benefits of working in each role. Whether you’re a student, parent, job seeker, or employer, this information will help you make informed decisions.
Why You Should Know About Nursing Types and Salaries in South Africa
Here are some reasons why understanding the types of nurses and their pay is important:
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Career planning: Helps you choose the right nursing category for your interests and financial goals.
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Salary expectations: Lets you know what you can earn at different levels.
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Growth opportunities: Shows you where further education and specialization can lead.
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Healthcare awareness: Helps the public appreciate the work of nurses at all levels.
Overview of Nursing Types in South Africa
The nursing profession in South Africa is regulated by the South African Nursing Council (SANC), which defines four main categories of nurses.
These are:
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Nursing Assistants (Auxiliary Nurses)
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Enrolled Nurses
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Registered/Professional Nurses
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Specialist Nurses
Each type requires different training and comes with its own salary range. Let’s explore each category in detail.
Factors That Influence Nurse Salaries in South Africa
Several factors affect how much a nurse earns:
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Level of qualification
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Years of experience
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Sector (public vs private)
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Location (urban vs rural)
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Specialization
By 2025, with ongoing healthcare reforms and rising demand for nurses, salaries have been adjusted to remain competitive.
Types of Nurses and Their Salaries in South Africa 2025
1. Nursing Assistant (Auxiliary Nurse)
Role:
Nursing assistants provide basic patient care under the supervision of enrolled or professional nurses. They assist with daily activities like bathing, feeding, and monitoring patients.
Salary Range (Monthly in Rands):
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Public sector: R9,000 – R12,000
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Private sector: R9,500 – R13,000
How to Qualify:
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1-year auxiliary nursing certificate from an accredited institution.
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Registration with SANC.
2. Enrolled Nurse
Role:
Enrolled nurses are mid-level nurses who perform more advanced care than assistants but do not have the full scope of a professional nurse. They administer medication, dress wounds, and monitor patients’ conditions.
Salary Range (Monthly in Rands):
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Public sector: R13,000 – R16,000
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Private sector: R14,000 – R17,000
How to Qualify:
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2-year enrolled nursing course.
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SANC registration.
3. Registered/Professional Nurse
Role:
Registered nurses are fully qualified professionals who manage patient care, lead teams, and create treatment plans. They may also educate patients and supervise junior staff.
Salary Range (Monthly in Rands):
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Public sector: R18,000 – R23,000
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Private sector: R20,000 – R25,000
How to Qualify:
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4-year bachelor’s degree or a diploma in nursing.
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SANC registration.
4. Specialist Nurse
Specialist nurses focus on specific fields such as ICU, theatre, midwifery, oncology, or emergency care.
Common Specialist Roles and Salaries:
| Specialty | Monthly Salary (Rands) |
|---|---|
| ICU Nurse | R25,000 – R40,000 |
| Theatre Nurse | R23,000 – R38,000 |
| Midwife | R20,000 – R35,000 |
| Oncology Nurse | R25,000 – R40,000 |
| Nurse Anaesthetist | R60,000 – R90,000 |
How to Qualify:
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Registered nurse qualification.
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Additional postgraduate diploma or certification in the specialty.
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Experience in the specific field.
Summary Table: Types of Nurses and Their Salaries 2025
| Type of Nurse | Monthly Salary (Public) | Monthly Salary (Private) | Qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing Assistant | R9,000 – R12,000 | R9,500 – R13,000 | 1-year certificate |
| Enrolled Nurse | R13,000 – R16,000 | R14,000 – R17,000 | 2-year diploma |
| Registered Nurse | R18,000 – R23,000 | R20,000 – R25,000 | 4-year degree/diploma |
| Specialist Nurse (average) | R25,000 – R90,000 | R28,000 – R95,000 | Degree + specialization |
Benefits of Being a Nurse in South Africa
In addition to salaries, nurses in South Africa enjoy several benefits:
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Medical aid contributions
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Pension and retirement funds
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Uniform allowance
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Paid leave
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Overtime pay and shift allowances
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Job security
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Career advancement opportunities
Career Growth and Advancement in Nursing
Nurses can advance their careers through further education and experience. For example:
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From Nursing Assistant → Enrolled Nurse → Registered Nurse → Specialist Nurse → Nurse Manager
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Opportunities to become educators, managers, or consultants.
Public vs Private Sector Nursing Jobs
Public Sector
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Salaries are structured by government pay scales.
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Good benefits and job security.
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Often higher workload and limited resources.
Private Sector
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Slightly higher pay in some roles.
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More modern facilities.
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Competitive benefits but sometimes less job security.
Specializations That Pay the Most
By 2025, the highest-paying specializations include:
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Nurse Anaesthetist
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Clinical Nurse Specialist
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ICU Nurse
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Oncology Nurse
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Nurse Manager
These roles require additional qualifications and experience but offer significant salary increases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Types of Nurses and Salaries in South Africa
1. What is the lowest-paid nursing category in South Africa?
The Nursing Assistant (Auxiliary Nurse) is the lowest-paid, earning about R9,000 – R12,000 per month in the public sector.
2. Who earns the most among nurses?
Nurse Anaesthetists and Specialist Nurses in high-demand areas like ICU or oncology can earn up to R90,000 monthly.
3. Do private hospitals pay better than public ones?
In many cases, yes — especially for specialist nurses.
4. How long does it take to become a registered nurse?
It typically takes 4 years of study and training.
5. Can enrolled nurses become registered nurses?
Yes, by completing further education and meeting SANC requirements.
6. Are nursing jobs in demand in South Africa?
Yes, particularly in rural areas and for specialized roles.
7. Do nurses get paid overtime?
Yes, nurses often receive overtime and shift allowances.
8. What is the difference between a registered nurse and a specialist nurse?
A registered nurse has general training, while a specialist nurse has additional training in a specific field.
9. Is nursing a good career in South Africa?
Yes — it offers stable employment, good benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
10. Can South African nurses work abroad?
Yes, South African nurses are in demand internationally, especially if they have experience and specializations.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Nursing Path
Understanding the types of nurses and their salaries in South Africa (2025) can help you choose the career path that suits your goals.
If you’re just starting out, you may begin as a Nursing Assistant and work your way up to Registered or Specialist Nurse. Each level comes with more responsibility, higher pay, and greater opportunities for advancement.
Specialized nurses — particularly in anaesthesia, ICU, or oncology — earn the highest salaries and enjoy strong demand.
Whether you aim for a stable government job or a higher-paying private position, nursing offers meaningful work, competitive pay, and job security in South Africa.
Take the time to plan your education and career path carefully to reach your desired role.