Psira director Manabela Chauke says only South Africans and legal citizens can become security guards

Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) has reiterated its stance on the eligibility criteria for training security officers within the country.

According to PSIRA Director, Manabela Chauke, only South African citizens or individuals possessing permanent residency status are permitted to undergo security officer training in South Africa.

In a recent statement, Chauke emphasized, “Any person who is not a South African citizen and not possessing a permanent residency status is not eligible to be trained as a security officer in the country.” This clear directive aims to ensure that the security sector maintains strict compliance with national regulations.

Director, Manabela Chauke

The restriction aligns with broader national security policies designed to safeguard the integrity and reliability of the private security industry. The stringent eligibility criteria are intended to ensure that those entrusted with the responsibility of protecting property and individuals have a verified and vested interest in the country’s welfare.

Chauke’s clarification comes at a time when the private security industry in South Africa is experiencing significant scrutiny and reform. The sector, which plays a critical role in maintaining public safety, requires personnel who meet stringent standards of reliability and trustworthiness. By limiting training to citizens and permanent residents, PSIRA aims to mitigate potential security risks associated with employing foreign nationals in sensitive security roles.

This policy also aligns with the broader objective of creating more employment opportunities for South Africans. The private security industry is a significant source of employment in the country, and by ensuring that training and job opportunities are reserved for locals and permanent residents, PSIRA supports national employment goals.

Chauke concluded his statement by urging all prospective security officers and training institutions to adhere strictly to the outlined eligibility criteria. He assured the public that PSIRA would continue to enforce these regulations rigorously to maintain the high standards of the private security industry in South Africa.

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