Patent Attorney salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Patent Attorney in South Africa is approximately 385,407 ZAR (19,231 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 Patent Attorney do?

A patent attorney is a legal professional who specializes in intellectual property law, specifically patents. Their main role is to assist individuals or companies in protecting their inventions and innovations by obtaining patents from the relevant authorities. This occupation requires a deep understanding of patent laws and regulations, as well as technical knowledge in various fields such as science, engineering, or technology. Patent attorneys provide legal advice and guidance throughout the patent application process, including conducting patent searches, drafting patent applications, and representing clients in patent disputes or litigation. They also help clients navigate the complex world of intellectual property rights, ensuring that their inventions are adequately protected and not infringed upon by others.

Skills: Patent attorney, Intellectual property law, Patents, Legal profession, Patent application, Patent disputes
Job industry: Legal

How much does Patent Attorney make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Patent Attorney a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Patent Attorney is a very well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Patent Attorney?

High salary for Patent Attorney would be somewhere between 423,948 ZAR and 558,840 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Patent Attorney 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: 385,407 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 32,117 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 7,412 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 185 ZAR per hour
By working as Patent Attorney a person can save up to 1,331 USD per month or 15,977 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 Patent Attorney

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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