The Z83 application form is required when applying for many South African government jobs advertised through the Public Service. Using the correct form and completing it properly can make the difference between a valid application and one that is rejected.
The current Z83 form has been in use since 1 January 2021. The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) provides both a new Z83 application form and an editable version on its official website.
If you are applying for a government vacancy, do not use an old Z83 form.
This guide explains how to complete the new Z83 form step by step, what to write in each section and which mistakes can cause problems.
What Is the Z83 Form?
The Z83 is the prescribed Application for Employment Form used for applications to positions in the South African Public Service.
It collects important information about the applicant, including:
- Personal details
- Contact information
- Citizenship
- Education and qualifications
- Employment history
- Professional registration
- Driver’s licence information
- Other relevant information
- Previous employment and re-employment information
- Declaration and signature
The current Z83 was introduced with effect from 1 January 2021, replacing the previous version.
Before You Fill In the Z83
Before opening the form, have the following ready:
- The government vacancy advertisement.
- Your updated CV.
- Your ID document.
- Your qualification information.
- Your employment history.
- Professional registration details, if applicable.
- Driver’s licence details, if required.
- The vacancy reference number.
- The exact job title.
- The department name.
- The advertised centre or location.
Read the vacancy advertisement first.
Different departments can include additional instructions about email addresses, documents, page initials, signatures and submission methods.
Step 1: Download the Correct Z83 Form
Start with the latest Z83 form supplied by DPSA.
The official DPSA website provides the new Z83 application form and an editable version.
Do not download an old Z83 from an unofficial website simply because it looks familiar.
Official source:
Save the form to your computer or device before completing it.
Step 2: Read the Vacancy Advertisement Carefully
Before completing anything, identify:
Department:
The government department advertising the position.
Post:
The exact job title.
Reference number:
The reference number assigned to the vacancy.
Centre:
The location or centre stated in the advertisement.
These details should match the vacancy exactly.
Do not shorten the job title unnecessarily.
Do not guess the reference number.
Step 3: Complete Part A
Part A contains information about the position you are applying for.
Enter the information exactly as it appears in the vacancy advertisement.
This normally includes information such as:
- Department
- Post applied for
- Reference number
- Centre
For example:
| Field | Example |
|---|---|
| Department | Department of Health |
| Post | Administration Clerk |
| Reference Number | ABC/2026/123 |
| Centre | Pretoria |
Do not leave Part A incomplete.
Current Public Service vacancy instructions state that Part A, Part C and Part D must be fully completed.
Step 4: Complete Part B – Personal Information
Part B asks for your personal information.
Enter your details carefully.
Depending on the field, this can include:
- Surname
- First names
- ID number
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Citizenship
- Contact details
- Residential information
- Other personal information requested on the form
South African applicants generally do not need to provide a passport number where the form allows the field to be left out.
Current government vacancy instructions specifically state that South African applicants need not provide a passport number.
Check Your ID Number
Your ID number must be correct.
A mistake in your ID number can create problems if the department needs to verify your application.
Check the number before submitting the form.
Step 5: Provide Your Contact Details
Give contact information that you currently use.
This can include:
- Mobile number
- Alternative contact number
- Email address
- Residential address
- Postal address where required
Your email address is especially important.
Government departments may use the contact information supplied in your application to communicate with shortlisted applicants.
Use a Professional Email Address
If possible, use an email address containing your name rather than an email address that looks informal or difficult to identify.
Also check your email regularly after submitting the application.
Step 6: Complete Citizenship Information
Answer the citizenship questions honestly.
If you are a South African citizen, provide the required