How to Fill Out the Z83 Form Correctly (With Examples)

Interested in applying for a Government job? You have most likely heard about filling out the Z83 Government Application form, yet you have no idea how to do it. In South Africa, the Z83 Form is the first step towards securing a job within government departments and municipalities.

This article will provide practical tips on how to fill out the form.

Downloading the Z83 Form

You now have an idea of what is needed to proceed with your application, but you do not have the form. Here is how you can obtain a Z83 form.

Before you start

• Download the correct Z83 form from the department or job advert that requested it.
• Read the entire form first. Understand the fields and required attachments before filling anything in.
• Use black ink, write legibly, and avoid smudges.

Section A — The advertised post

• Enter the correct job title and reference number exactly as shown in the advert. Incorrect reference numbers can lead to disqualification.
• State your availability / notice period (e.g., “2 weeks”).
• If you can start immediately, write IMMEDIATELY in the relevant field.

Example (Section A)

• Job title: Administrative Clerk
• Reference number: HR/ADM/2025/045
• Availability: 2 weeks

Section B — Personal information

• Provide your surname, full names, date of birth, and ID number (or passport number if you are a foreign national).
• For the race field, mark the appropriate box with an X.
• For Yes/No questions, mark the correct box with an X.
• Complete any additional personal fields requested.

Section C — Contact details and preferred medium of communication

• Specify your preferred language and preferred communication method (post, email, telephone).
  • If you select Post, give your postal address.
  • If you select E-mail, give a working email address.
  • If you select Telephone, give a reliable phone or cellphone number.
• Ensure contact details are current and easy to read.

Section D — Official language proficiency

• List the South African languages you can use.
• For each language, indicate your proficiency level in the provided blocks (for example: Good / Fair / Poor).

Section E — Formal qualifications

• List your qualifications with: institution name, year completed, and qualification title (e.g., “National Diploma in Office Management — ABC College — 2019”).
• Attach certified copies of certificates if the advert requests them.

Section F — Work experience

• Provide a full work history: company name, job title, period of employment, and reason for leaving each position.
• Be honest and accurate — dates and job titles should match any supporting documents or your CV.

Section G — References

• List referees with their full names, contact details, and relationship to you (e.g., Line Manager).
• Make sure your referees are aware they may be contacted.

Declaration

• Sign and date the declaration. An unsigned or undated form is invalid and will likely be disregarded.
• Make sure the form is fully completed before signing.

Pro tips

• First impressions matter: neat, clean, legible writing in black ink.
• Follow the instructions: do not write “CV attached” unless the form specifically allows it. Fill in required fields even if you attach a CV.
• Attach requested documents: certified ID copy, certified qualification copies, proof of work experience, and any other documents listed in the advert.
• Spell-check names and addresses — mistakes look unprofessional.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Leaving sections blank.
• Entering an incorrect job reference number.
• Forgetting to sign and date the form.
• Omitting supporting documents that were requested.

Learn more: Common Mistakes to Avoid when Filling in the Z83 Form

Final checklist (before you submit)

• Is the correct job title and reference number entered?
• Is the form signed and dated?
• Are ID/passport and qualification copies attached (if required)?
• Are your contact details correct and legible?
• Have you checked for spelling errors and smudges?
• Have you included a CV if requested or advised?

Completing the Z83 form correctly is one of the most important steps when applying for a government job in South Africa. A well-filled, error-free form shows that you are professional, detail-oriented, and serious about the opportunity. Always take your time to read the instructions, provide accurate information, and attach all required documents.

Remember even small mistakes, like leaving sections blank or forgetting to sign, can cost you the job. With careful attention and a neat presentation, your Z83 form can help you stand out and move closer to landing your desired position in the public sector.