The Gauteng department of health has budgeted more than R612 million to compensate foreign medical professionals during the 2026/27 financial year.
The disclosure has triggered criticism as hundreds of qualified South African doctors remain unemployed.
Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC Faith Mazibuko revealed the figures in a written response to ActionSA's questions.
According to the response, the department has 551 foreign medical professionals on its payroll. Of these employees, 170 hold permanent positions and 186 work on temporary contracts.