Medical Interpreter salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Medical Interpreter in South Africa is approximately 111,631 ZAR (5,571 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Medical Interpreter do?

A medical interpreter is a professional who facilitates communication between healthcare providers and patients with limited English proficiency. They ensure accurate and effective communication by interpreting conversations, medical terminology, and instructions in real-time during medical appointments, consultations, and procedures. Medical interpreters play a crucial role in ensuring that patients receive the appropriate care and understand their medical conditions, treatment options, and medication instructions. They must possess strong language skills, cultural competency, and knowledge of medical terminology and procedures. Additionally, they must maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to ethical standards.

Skills: medical interpreter, language services, healthcare communication, cultural competency, interpretation services, patient care
Job industry: Healthcare

How much does Medical Interpreter make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Medical Interpreter a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Medical Interpreter is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Medical Interpreter?

High salary for Medical Interpreter would be somewhere between 122,794 ZAR and 161,865 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Medical Interpreter in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 111,631 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 9,303 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 2,147 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 54 ZAR per hour
By working as Medical Interpreter a person can save up to 193 USD per month or 2,317 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Medical Interpreter

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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