How to complete a Z83 Application Form

By | October 5, 2022

How to complete a Z83 Application Form

 
Application forms are the first opportunity most candidates have to make a lasting impression on a potential employee or internship/ graduate programme provider. Application forms are vital as they allow individuals to access any available job opportunities. The Z83 Application Form is a document used when one is applying for a government department job and may only be used by individuals who possess original Identity Documents or official passports.
 

Download the Z83 Application Form here

What is the purpose of the Z83 application form?

Z83 application forms are used by government departments to select the most suitable candidates for their advertised jobs. Once candidates submit their Z83 application form, the applications are screened and the department then determines if the candidate meets the minimum requirements and qualifications.

The shortlisting committee then discusses and agrees on various selection criteria in order to choose the most qualified and suitable candidates. Owing to many members potentially checking and reviewing your application, it is imperative that you ensure your Z83 application form is neat and consists of the relevant information and supporting documents.
 

How to complete the Z83 application form

When completing your Z83 application form, be sure to dedicate a specific time to this process. Ensure that your application form is completed fully and properly, so that it stands out from the rest, resulting in you having a better chance of being selected. Should you not complete all the required sections, it could result in your application being unsuccessful and terminate your chances of a job opportunity.

It is important to note that mistakes can happen, such as some attached documents getting lost or some attachments not being submitted at all. To ensure that this does not happen, be sure to put time aside to fully complete the Z83 application form and attach all the required documentation.
 

Tips to follow when completing the Z83 application form:

In order to increase your chances of landing a job opportunity within a government department, it is important that you know how to fill out the Z83 form correctly. The steps to do this are as follows:

  • 1) Obtain the form: The first thing you will need to do is to get the form. You can obtain it from any South Africa National, Provincial and Local Government office as well as most Government department’s websites. Some sites, such TopLearnerships.co.za, will often attach a link in government department advertisements, allowing you to easily download and complete the form.
  • 2) Read the Z83 application form thoroughly: Allow yourself time to carefully read through the form. This will allow you to fully understand all the necessary questions, which will aid you in answering them to the best of your ability. If some of the questions are confusing, do not be afraid to ask for help by visiting your nearest Labour Centre in your area at the Department of Employment and Labour.
  • 3) Remember that your first impression counts: The Z83 application form acts as an introduction from you to the hiring manager. It is therefore important that you complete your application form to the best of your ability, in neat and legible handwriting.
  • 4) Follow all the instructions on the application form: In general, following instructions should be something that comes naturally to you, or something that you at least practice every day. The same applies for application forms, as you are required to submit in detail the necessary information. Be sure to always do what is instructed to you.
  • 5) Make sure your reference number is correct: The government receives a large amount of applications, especially for entry level jobs. Always ensure that your reference number for your application (and the specific post you are applying for) is correct. This will save your application from being unnecessarily disqualified.
  • 6) Be sure to sign the Declaration section: Should your application form not be signed or dated, it will result in immediate disqualification. The declaration section is important as by signing it, you are authorizing your application. Always ensure that your form is completed fully and signed at the end.

 

Completing each section of the Z83 form

SECTION A

  • POSITION FOR WHICH YOU ARE APPLYING: in this space you must fill in the job position or title exactly as it is shown on the advert (do not change or shorten it).
  • DEPARTMENT WHERE THE POSITION WAS ADVERTISED: in this space you must fill in the full name of the Department in which the position you are applying for is advertised.
  • REFERENCE NUMBER: in this space you must fill in the reference number of the position you are applying for exactly as it is shown on the advert. If you are applying for more than one position, you will need to fill in a seperate Z83 application form for each position.
  • IF YOU ARE OFFERED THE POSITION, WHEN CAN YOU START OR HOW MUCH NOTICE MUST YOU SERVE WITH YOUR CURRENT EMPLOYER?: in this space you must fill in the time you would like to take up your new job should you be considered successful.

SECTION B

  • PERSONAL INFORMATION: in this space you must fill in your full personal details, written clearly as they are reflected on your Curriculum Vitae. This should include: your full names, Identity number, date of birth, race, disability, citizenship, nationality, work permit, disciplinary case, criminal record, discharged or retired from the Public Service, business interests, work experience, profession or occupation registration.
    If a question is not applicable to you, do not leave it blank, rather fill in “N/A”, to show the employer you have answered all the questions.


 

SECTION C

  • CONTACT DETAILS AND MEDIUM OF COMMUNICATIONS: in this space you must fill in your prefered contact method, preferably telephone as it is fast to reach you and more convenient. Fill in at least two phone numbers of individuals who are reliable and trustworthy to inform you of any communication received regarding a post.

SECTION D

  • SOUTH AFRICAN OFFICIAL LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY: in this space you must fill in your level of language proficiency, according to a rating scale (Good, Fair or Bad). This pertains to your ability to speak, write and read in a specific language.

SECTION E

  • FORMAL QUALIFICATION (from highest to the lowest): in this space you must fill in all formal qualifications you have completed, starting from the highest to the lowest level relevant to the post applied for, e.g. Diploma (highest) and Matric (lowest).

SECTION F

  • WORK EXPERIENCE (Also attach a detailed CV): in this space you must fill in all of your work experiences, starting with the most relevant to recent work experience. You may also include any volunteering work if it relates to the position you are applying for.

SECTION G

  • REFERENCES: (Name, Relationship and Contacts): in this space you must fill in the details of at least three referees. You may obtain reference from previous supervisors, managers, or a colleague who can attest to your work, based on your work experience and competence. Family or friends will not make suitable references, unless you have worked with them.

DECLARATION

  • SIGNATURE, DATE, AND INITIAL: in this space you must sign, date and initial each page of the Z83 form before submission.


 

What are some mistakes you should avoid when completing a Z83 form?

Officials checking all Z83 forms process hundreds of applications each day. It is therefore important to avoid any mistakes as it could cause you to miss out on your dream job.

Once you have completed the application form, you should:

  • Ensure that you have filled in accurate and complete information
  • Ensure that you have stated which specific job you are applying for
  • Double check your form for any errors

If you are not sure on how to complete the Z83 application form, or are facing difficulties in any way, do not hesitate to contact an Employment Counsellor at the nearby Labour Centres in the Department of Employment and Labour. Employment Counsellors are there to aid you in the application process and further educate you on the processes and practical ways of securing interviews and jobs.