Chartered Accountant Salary in South Africa 2025

Chartered Accountants (CAs) play a crucial role in the financial health of businesses. They handle financial reports, manage company finances, and provide essential insights for decision-making. In South Africa, the Chartered Accountant Salary can vary widely based on experience, skills, and the specific employer.

This article explores the average Chartered Accountant Salary, job roles, skills required, and career progression for Chartered Accountants in South Africa.

Average Chartered Accountant Salary in South Africa (2025)

The salary of a Chartered Accountant (CA) in South Africa can vary based on experience, specialization, and location. As of 2025, the average annual Chartered Accountant salary is approximately R520,000. However, salaries can differ significantly across various experience levels and industries:

• 10th Percentile: R100,000
• Median Chartered Accountant Salary: R520,000
• 90th Percentile: R1,050,000

Chartered Accountant Salary Breakdown by Experience Level (2025)

Experience is a crucial factor that affects the salary of Chartered Accountants. Here’s a detailed breakdown of salaries by experience level:

• Entry-Level (Less than 1 year): R350,000
• Early Career (1-4 years): R500,000
• Mid-Career (5-9 years): R670,000
• Experienced (10-19 years): R800,000
• Late Career (20+ years): R1,200,000

Additional Components of Chartered Accountant Salary (2025)

In addition to base salaries, Chartered Accountants often earn extra compensation through various sources:

• Bonus: R15,000 – R180,000
• Profit Sharing: R5,000 – R200,000
• Commission: R8,000 – R160,000

Total Pay can range from R130,000 to R1,100,000 depending on experience and role.

Roles and Responsibilities of Chartered Accountants in South Africa

Chartered Accountants play a vital role in South Africa’s financial landscape. Key responsibilities include:

• Financial Reporting: Preparing, analyzing, and reviewing financial statements to ensure transparency and compliance with accounting standards.
• Budgeting and Forecasting: Collaborating with organizations to create accurate budgets and forecasts to plan financial strategies.
• Auditing: Conducting audits to assess financial records and ensure compliance with industry regulations.
• Taxation: Advising clients on tax-related issues, ensuring compliance, and optimizing tax strategies.
• Compliance: Ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and best practices in financial reporting and management.

Required Skills for Chartered Accountants

To succeed and command a higher salary, Chartered Accountants need the following key skills:

• Analytical Skills: Ability to assess complex financial data, identify trends, and make informed decisions.
• Attention to Detail: Ensuring all financial statements and reports are accurate and compliant.
• Communication Skills: Effectively conveying financial data to stakeholders without a financial background.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing financial issues and identifying opportunities for financial optimization.
• Technical Proficiency: Expertise in using advanced accounting software and tools like SAP, QuickBooks, and other ERP systems.

How to Become a Chartered Accountant in South Africa (2025)

The pathway to becoming a Chartered Accountant in South Africa involves education, practical training, and exams. Here is the updated process:

1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
   You must complete a degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Accredited universities offering relevant programs include:
   • University of Cape Town (UCT)
   • University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
   • Stellenbosch University
   • University of Pretoria
   • University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
2. Postgraduate Qualification
   After completing your bachelor’s degree, enroll in a postgraduate qualification like the Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting (PGDA) or Honours in Accounting. This program must be accredited by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA).
3. Practical Training (Articleship)
   You must complete a three-year training contract with a SAICA-approved training office, where you gain hands-on experience in accounting and auditing.
4. Examinations
   To qualify, you must pass two main exams:
   • Initial Test of Competence (ITC): This is taken after the postgraduate qualification.
   • Assessment of Professional Competence (APC): This exam is taken after completing the required practical experience.
5. Duration
   The entire process to qualify as a Chartered Accountant typically takes 7-8 years:

Related: APS Score for Accounting & Finance Degrees in South Africa 2026

Where Chartered Accountants Work in South Africa

Chartered Accountants in South Africa are employed in various sectors, including:

• Public Accounting Firms: Providing auditing, tax, and consulting services.
• Private Sector Corporations: Working in finance, accounting, and strategy roles.
• Government and Public Sector: Serving in regulatory bodies, state-owned enterprises, and policy-making organizations.
• Non-Profits and NGOs: Ensuring financial compliance and accountability in charitable organizations.

Salary Estimator: Find Out Your Worth in 2025

The average Chartered Accountant Salary is a crucial aspect of the financial stability and growth of businesses. With a wide range of responsibilities and opportunities for career advancement, Chartered Accountants in South Africa can expect a rewarding career with competitive compensation.