Certain employees do not contribute to the Fund and they therefore cannot claim from the Fund if they are unemployed.

The following people are not covered by UIF:

• Employees who work less than 24 hours per month (or 8 hours per week)
• Seasonal employees
• Employees who receive payment under a learnership agreement negotiated under the Skills Development Act (no 97 of 1998)
• National and provincial government employees (public servants)
• People whose earnings are calculated on a commission basis
• Foreign contract employees (unless they have permanent residence)

(See: Immigrants and Migrants)