Right now the Public Service Vacancy Circular 25 of 2026 is live, and dozens of government jobs are closing within the next two weeks – a chance you don’t want to miss.
What the opportunity is
The Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA) released Circular 25 on 17 July 2026. It is a 392‑page PDF that lists vacant posts in every national department and in each provincial administration across South Africa. The vacancies cover many fields – administration, finance, agriculture, education, health, justice, public works, water and sanitation, and more. Positions range from entry‑level clerks to senior managers.
National departments advertising vacancies
- Department of Agriculture
- Department of Correctional Services
- Department of Defence
- Department of Employment and Labour
- Department of Higher Education and Training
- Department of Home Affairs
- Independent Police Investigative Directorate
- Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services
- Department of Land Reform and Rural Development
- National Prosecuting Authority
- Office of the Chief Justice
- Department of Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation
- Department of Public Service and Administration
- Department of Public Works and Infrastructure
- Department of Traditional Affairs
- Department of Transport
- National Treasury
- Department of Water and Sanitation
Provincial government vacancies
- Eastern Cape (pages 131‑237)
- Free State
- Gauteng
- KwaZulu‑Natal
- Limpopo (pages 266‑305)
- Mpumalanga (pages 306‑332)
- North West
- Western Cape
Who can apply
Each post has its own qualification and experience criteria. In general you may need one or more of the following:
- Grade 12 or equivalent
- National Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Bachelor’s degree
- Post‑graduate qualification or professional registration
- Relevant work experience
- Valid driver’s licence (if required)
- Computer literacy and knowledge of government policies
Entry‑level roles such as Administration Clerk, Human‑Resource Clerk or Secretary may only require Grade 12. Professional and management posts usually require a diploma, degree, or relevant registration.
Be aware of a few special notices:
- The circular amends several South African Police Service (SAPS) ads – experience is not required for a number of clerk posts, and the closing date was extended to 31 July 2026.
- The Free State Department of Human Settlements withdrew 37 graduate internship positions because of advertising errors. Do not apply for those withdrawn posts.
What you gain
Successful applicants can expect a stable government salary, pension benefits, and paid leave. You will also acquire valuable public‑sector experience, professional networks, and the possibility to move into higher‑rank positions over time.
How to apply
- Download the full circular (PDF) from the DPSA website.
- Use the index to find the national department or province that suits you.
- Read each vacancy carefully – note the job title, reference number and closing date.
- Gather the documents the department requests (usually a Z83 form, updated CV, and any specific certificates).
- Complete the new Z83 application form – the version effective from 1 January 2021.
- Attach your CV and any other required paperwork.
- Send the application to the address or email listed in the advertisement (never to the DPSA unless the vacancy is within the DPSA itself).
- Make sure you submit before the exact closing time (many close at 16:00 on 31 July 2026, but check each ad).
Download the new Z83 Application Form
Click here to download the Z83 form. Fill it out completely, sign and date where required.
Tips to improve your chances
- Match every minimum requirement before you apply.
- Use the exact reference number in the Z83 form, email subject line and on any covering letter.
- Tailor your CV to highlight the skills the vacancy asks for.
- Submit your application via the method stated (email, e‑Recruitment portal, hand‑delivery, etc.).
- Keep a copy of your sent email or a receipt of delivery as proof.
- Do not combine unrelated vacancies into one application unless the department explicitly allows it.
- Be truthful – false qualifications can lead to disqualification or legal action.
Next steps
Start now: download Circular 25, locate the vacancies that match your background, complete the Z83 form and send your application before the deadline. Good luck, and remember that each well‑prepared application brings you one step closer to a public‑service career.
