Want to work at the Department of Home Affairs? Discover the qualifications, study fields, and skills required to build a successful career.
Working at the Department of Home Affairs is a goal for many South Africans. Whether you’re drawn by the stability of a government job, the chance to serve your country, or the potential for career growth, Home Affairs offers a wide variety of roles — but it all starts with the right qualifications.
So, if you’re asking, “What should I study to work at Home Affairs?”, this guide is for you.
We’ll break down:
- What Home Affairs does
- The different jobs available
- Study paths and qualifications you’ll need
- Skills that increase your chances of being hired
Let’s explore how you can turn your ambition into action.
🏢 What Does Home Affairs Actually Do?
The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is responsible for managing key identity, citizenship, and immigration services in South Africa.
Core responsibilities include:
- Issuing ID documents and passports
- Managing birth, marriage, and death registrations
- Immigration services and permits
- Asylum and refugee services
- Civic education and population data
Because of its wide scope, Home Affairs employs people across administration, IT, law enforcement, customer service, and immigration control.
📋 What Kinds of Jobs Are Available at Home Affairs?
Working at DHA doesn’t mean you’ll only be sitting behind a counter. There are roles in many departments, such as:
| Job Title | Description |
|---|---|
| Civic Services Clerk | Processes ID, passport, and certificate applications |
| Immigration Officer | Manages ports of entry, visas, and foreign nationals |
| IT Technician or Analyst | Supports biometric systems, databases, and digital identity tools |
| Policy Analyst | Helps create and review laws and regulations |
| Inspector or Investigator | Conducts investigations into fraud and illegal immigration |
| Admin Officer or Secretary | Provides general office support and organisation |
| Call Centre Agent | Handles queries and complaints from the public |
Each role comes with its own requirements in terms of qualifications, experience, and skills.
🎓 What to Study to Work at Home Affairs
There’s no single degree or course for “Home Affairs work,” but depending on your area of interest, here are the recommended study fields.
1. Public Administration or Public Management
Why it’s relevant:
This qualification gives you the tools to understand how government departments function, including service delivery, budgeting, policy implementation, and citizen engagement.
Recommended qualifications:
- National Diploma in Public Management
- Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA)
- Bachelor of Arts in Public Governance
Where to study:
TVET colleges, UNISA, University of Johannesburg, North-West University
2. Office Administration or Secretarial Studies
Why it’s relevant:
For admin roles and clerk positions, Home Affairs looks for strong office skills: filing, communication, records management, and basic computer literacy.
Recommended qualifications:
- NATED N4–N6 in Office Administration
- NC(V) Office Administration
- Certificate in Secretarial Studies
Where to study:
TVET Colleges, Boston City Campus, Oxbridge Academy
3. Information Technology (IT)
Why it’s relevant:
Home Affairs uses digital fingerprinting, smart ID systems, facial recognition, and large databases. IT professionals are vital for maintaining security and systems.
Recommended qualifications:
- National Diploma in IT
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
- Certificate in Networking or Cybersecurity
Where to study:
UNISA, CPUT, UJ, Tshwane University of Technology
4. Criminal Justice or Policing
Why it’s relevant:
Immigration officers, inspectors, and fraud investigators often need knowledge of the law, investigative techniques, and security protocols.
Recommended qualifications:
- Diploma in Policing
- BA in Criminal Justice
- National Certificate in Law Enforcement
Where to study:
University of South Africa (UNISA), University of Venda, SAPS Training Academies (for specialised units)
5. Languages or Communication
Why it’s relevant:
With citizens and foreign nationals from diverse backgrounds, communication skills — especially multilingual ability — are essential.
Recommended qualifications:
- Bachelor of Arts in Languages
- Diploma in Communication Science
- Certificate in Professional Communication
Where to study:
UNISA, UCT, Rhodes University
6. Legal Studies
Why it’s relevant:
Home Affairs plays a role in upholding the law, especially around immigration and citizenship. Legal clerks or compliance officers benefit from legal training.
Recommended qualifications:
- Paralegal Certificate
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Diploma in Legal Studies
Where to study:
UNISA, Varsity College, UJ
7. Refugee and Migration Studies
Why it’s relevant:
Specialised immigration officers who handle asylum cases or refugee applications often need knowledge of international law and migration patterns.
Recommended qualifications:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Refugee and Migration Studies
- Courses in International Relations
Where to study:
University of the Witwatersrand, UCT
🧠 Skills That Boost Your Chances (Even Without a Degree)
Even if you don’t yet have a formal qualification, there are skills that Home Affairs values:
- Customer service
- Attention to detail
- Computer literacy (Microsoft Office, typing)
- Teamwork
- Multilingual communication
- Integrity and confidentiality
- Ability to follow procedures
If you’re a school leaver, start by applying for entry-level internships or EPWP placements at DHA offices, and use that time to build experience.
📚 Can You Work at Home Affairs with a Matric?
Yes, but mostly for entry-level positions like:
- Cleaner
- Data Capturer
- General Assistant
- EPWP Intern
- Filing Clerk (in some cases)
However, having Matric plus a relevant certificate or diploma gives you a much better chance of being hired and promoted.
Recommended Matric subjects:
- English (Home Language)
- Business Studies
- Computer Applications Technology (CAT)
- Life Orientation
- History or Geography (for civic understanding)
📌 How to Apply for Jobs at Home Affairs
- Visit the Department of Home Affairs Careers page
Jobs are often advertised on www.dha.gov.za or the Public Service Vacancy Circular. - Register on the E-Recruitment System
Many applications now go through an online system. - Prepare your documents
- Updated CV
- Certified copies of your qualifications and ID
- Z83 Application Form (available online)
- Reference letters (if available)
- Stay informed
Sign up for job alerts, check social media, and join youth employment platforms like SAYouth.mobi.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What qualifications are required to work at Home Affairs?
A: It depends on the role. Entry-level jobs may require Matric, while more advanced positions need diplomas or degrees in administration, IT, law, or public management.
Q: Is it easy to get a job at Home Affairs?
A: Government jobs are competitive. The more qualifications, skills, and experience you have, the better your chances.
Q: Can I do an internship at Home Affairs?
A: Yes. DHA offers internship programmes and learnerships, especially for youth. These are usually advertised on government platforms or through the NYDA.
💼 Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Path for You
If you want to work at Home Affairs, your journey starts with education, awareness, and preparation.
Whether you aim to be an immigration officer, a civic clerk, an administrator, or an IT specialist, there’s a study path that can lead you there.
Start small. Stay committed. Keep learning.
The Department of Home Affairs needs people like you — dedicated, ethical, and ready to serve the country.
