How to Apply for a Cleaner Position at Home Affairs: A Complete Guide for Job Seekers

Looking to apply for a cleaner job at the Department of Home Affairs? Here’s a complete guide on requirements, where to find vacancies

Getting a government job is a dream for many South Africans—and for good reason. Government positions, even at entry-level, offer job security, structured working hours, and the chance to be part of something bigger. One of the more accessible roles is that of a cleaner at the Department of Home Affairs.

If you’ve been asking yourself, “How do I apply for a cleaner job at Home Affairs?”, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, including:

• What the job involves
• Minimum requirements
• Where to find vacancies
• How to apply
• Tips for success

What Does a Cleaner at Home Affairs Do?

Cleaners at the Department of Home Affairs play a vital role in keeping the offices clean, safe, and welcoming for staff and the public. You may not be in the spotlight, but your work directly supports the department’s ability to function smoothly.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Sweeping, mopping, and polishing floors
• Cleaning windows, desks, and office equipment
• Disinfecting public areas (especially important in high-traffic offices)
• Emptying trash bins and maintaining hygiene
• Reporting damaged or broken equipment
• Replenishing bathroom and cleaning supplies

Cleaners often start early in the day and may work independently or as part of a facilities team.

Minimum Requirements to Apply for a Cleaner Job at Home Affairs

The cleaner position is considered an entry-level government job, which means it’s one of the few roles that do not require a university degree.

Basic requirements typically include:

• Grade 10 or higher (Matric is preferred)
• Ability to read and write in English
• South African citizenship
• No criminal record
• Physically fit and able to perform cleaning duties
• Willingness to follow rules and work as part of a team

Note: Having previous experience as a cleaner in a school, hospital, office, or public building can give you an advantage.

Where to Find Cleaner Vacancies at Home Affairs

Cleaner jobs are not always advertised in the mainstream media. You’ll need to check specific government platforms regularly to catch them when they open.

1. Department of Home Affairs Website

Visit the official Home Affairs site: www.dha.gov.za
Navigate to the “Careers” or “Vacancies” section to see open posts.

2. Public Service Vacancy Circular

This weekly publication lists jobs from all government departments. It’s available at:

• www.dpsa.gov.za
• Local municipal offices
• Some community libraries

3. SAYouth.mobi

If you’re between 18–35, join this platform to find government internships and entry-level jobs.

4. NYDA Centres and Labour Offices

The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and Department of Labour centres often post public service job openings on their notice boards.

5. Newspapers and Local Radio

Some local or regional jobs may be advertised in community newspapers or mentioned on local radio stations.

✍️ How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Once you’ve found a vacancy, here’s how to apply properly and professionally:

Step 1: Read the Job Advertisement Carefully

Pay attention to:

• Location of the vacancy
• Closing date
• Required qualifications
• Any specific instructions (e.g., how to submit your documents)

Don’t skip the fine print.

Step 2: Get the Z83 Application Form

Most government jobs—including cleaner posts—require a Z83 form. This form is standard across departments and can be downloaded from:

• www.dpsa.gov.za
• Collected at Home Affairs or municipal offices

Step 3: Complete the Z83 Form

Fill in the form neatly, either by hand (in block letters using a black pen) or digitally if allowed.

Be honest about:

• Your work experience (even if it’s informal cleaning jobs)
• Criminal background (if any)
• Your contact information

Step 4: Prepare Your Supporting Documents

You’ll need to attach:

• Certified copy of your ID
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate (or Grade 10 report)
• Updated CV (no longer than 2–3 pages)
• Reference letters or proof of previous work (if available)

Certifications should be no older than 6 months.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Depending on the instructions in the advert, you may need to:

• Hand-deliver your application to a specific office
• Email it as one PDF document
• Post it to a particular department address

Always meet the deadline. Late applications are usually not accepted.

Important Tips to Increase Your Chances

• Keep your CV simple and clean. Include your personal info, school background, and any previous cleaning work, even if informal.
• Follow all instructions exactly. If they ask for certified documents, don’t skip that.
• Apply for multiple posts. Cleaner vacancies pop up in different provinces and towns—cast a wide net.
• Check spelling and grammar. A clean application reflects your attention to detail.
• Dress neatly when delivering in person. You never know who might see your professionalism.

Can You Reapply for a Cleaner Job If You Don’t Succeed?

Absolutely! Cleaner posts are advertised regularly throughout the year, and many people apply more than once before being successful.

Tip: Save your documents in a folder (paper or digital) so you’re ready when new vacancies appear.

What Happens After You Apply?

If you’re shortlisted, you may be called in for:

• A basic interview
• A medical check or physical test (for fitness)
• Reference checks

Sometimes you may be asked to clean a sample area as a practical demonstration.

Real Stories from Successful Applicants

“I saw the ad on the DPSA website. I only had my Grade 10, but I applied. After two weeks, I got called in for an interview. Now I’m working at a DHA office in Limpopo.”
— Rebecca, age 33

“I didn’t have experience in offices, but I used to clean houses. I explained that in my CV, and I got the job.”
— Thulani, age 27

These stories show that you don’t need a fancy degree to work at Home Affairs—just determination, honesty, and attention to detail.

❓Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need matric to apply for a cleaner job?

A: While Matric is preferred, some positions accept Grade 10. Always check the specific job ad.

Q: Is there an age limit?

A: Typically, you must be 18 years or older. There is no official upper age limit for cleaner posts unless stated otherwise.

Q: Are these permanent jobs?

A: Some posts are permanent, while others may be contract-based (e.g., 12-month EPWP positions). Read the ad carefully.

Q: What’s the salary for a cleaner at Home Affairs?

A: Entry-level salaries in government range from R7,000 to R10,000 per month, depending on the pay scale and location.

Summary: What You Need to Apply

Final Thoughts: Start Small, Dream Big

A cleaner job at Home Affairs may seem like a small start—but it’s a foot in the door of the public service. Many people have started in support roles and worked their way up over time by studying further and proving themselves.

Don’t wait for opportunity—prepare for it.
Check vacancy pages often, have your documents ready, and don’t hesitate to apply more than once.