Updated 2026-11-15
For most national and provincial public-service vacancies, do not attach certified copies when you first apply unless the advert specifically tells you to. The current Z83 process is to apply with the correct Z83 and the documents the advert requests, then provide certified documents if you are shortlisted.
Always follow the vacancy advert first. The advertising department sets the application method and can state extra document instructions.
The Department of Public Service and Administration said applicants do not have to submit certified copies of qualifications and other relevant documents with their applications. Departments are encouraged to ask for them only from shortlisted candidates, on or before the interview day. The Z83 itself also says candidates selected for interview will be asked for additional certified information needed for final selection. See the DPSA statement and the official Z83 form.
| Application stage | What to do |
|---|---|
| Before shortlisting | Submit the completed Z83, detailed CV and any other documents expressly required by that advert. Do not add certified copies unless the advert asks for them. |
| If shortlisted | Provide the certified qualifications and other related documents requested by the department, by its stated deadline. DPSA guidance says this should be on or before interview day. |
| If the advert has different instructions | Follow that advert. Contact the advertising department, not DPSA, if you need vacancy-specific clarification. |
This is not a reason to leave the form incomplete. The current official Z83 is effective from 1 January 2021. It says every section must be completed completely, accurately and legibly, and the declaration must be signed and dated. The DPSA's 2022 instruction says to complete all fields, using “not applicable” where appropriate rather than leaving fields blank. The latest Public Service Vacancy Circular available on 15 November 2026, issued 6 November 2026, also directs applicants to use this Z83 version and give the vacancy reference number.
The exact list comes from the department's request and the vacancy advert. Recent 2026 circular adverts use the wording “certified copies of qualifications and other related documents”. For example, the Department of Electricity and Energy advert in Circular 40 says shortlisted applicants must submit these on or before interview day. It also says a shortlisted applicant with foreign qualifications must submit a SAQA evaluation report.
If you choose to include certified documents because an advert asks for them, the Z83 notes that departments must accept certification up to six months old, unless that advert allows a longer period. A current Circular 40 Defence advert likewise says certified documents from shortlisted candidates must not be older than six months. Check the particular notice before obtaining copies, because the wording can differ between departments.
| Check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Use the Z83 effective 1 January 2021 | The current circular directs applicants to use this version. |
| Complete the post, department and reference number | The circular requires the reference number; the form identifies the advertised post and department. |
| Complete and sign the form | The Z83 says failure to sign may lead to disqualification. |
| Attach a detailed CV | The current circular calls for full particulars of training, qualifications, competencies, knowledge and experience, on a separate sheet or CV if necessary. |
| Check the advert's delivery route and closing date | Applications must reach the relevant advertising department by the applicable closing date. |
| Hold certified copies until requested, unless the advert says otherwise | The normal rule is for shortlisted candidates to provide them on or before interview day. |
Get the form and current circulars from the DPSA public service vacancy circular page. That page says vacancy queries must go to the relevant advertising department.
Never pay anybody for a government job, a recruitment service or a supposed document check. The Department of Employment and Labour says a request to pay for recruitment or related employment services is likely to be a scam.
Usually no, unless the specific vacancy advert requires it at application stage. The DPSA says certified qualifications and other relevant documents should be requested only from shortlisted candidates, on or before the interview day. Follow the individual advert if it gives different instructions.
The Z83 says departments must accept certified documents accompanying an application if the certification is up to six months old, unless the advert prescribes a longer period. But attaching them is generally not necessary where the advert asks only for a Z83 and CV. Keep the application focused on the advert's instructions.
The official Z83 says departments must accept accompanying certified documents that are up to six months old unless the advert prescribes a longer period. A current 2026 Defence advert in Public Service Vacancy Circular 40 also requires shortlisted candidates' certified documents to be no older than six months. Check your own advert because it controls the requirement.
Submit the completed, signed current Z83 and a detailed CV, using the delivery method and deadline in that advert. Do not add certified copies unless the notice asks for them. If shortlisted, wait for the department's request for certified qualifications and related documents.
No. Do not pay a recruiter or anyone offering a job, placement or supposed recruitment check. The Department of Employment and Labour says no person may charge a work seeker a fee for employment services and warns that payment requests are likely scams.