Are you wondering whether the South African Police Service (SAPS) 2026 applications are open? If you're interested in joining the police force and making a difference in your community, here’s what you need to know about the upcoming SAPS 2026 recruitment process.
Are SAPS 2026 Applications Open Yet?
No, SAPS 2026 applications are not yet open. However, they are expected to open before 30 June 2025, according to the official announcement made by SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola on 13 June 2025.
The SAPS will be recruiting 5,500 new police trainees for the 2026 intake. This is part of a major drive to boost police visibility and improve safety in communities across South Africa.
When Will Applications Open?
The official SAPS recruitment portal for the 2026 intake will go live sometime in June 2025. While the exact date has not been confirmed, candidates are encouraged to start preparing now so they are ready to apply as soon as the system opens.
What’s New in the 2026 SAPS Recruitment?
For the first time in SAPS history, the application process will be fully online, making it more accessible to candidates across the country. This new Electronic Recruitment System will allow applicants to:
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Submit their SAPS applications online
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Upload all required supporting documents
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Track their application progress
This digital move is expected to simplify the recruitment process and reduce paperwork delays.
Who Can Apply for SAPS 2026?
While the official 2026 guidelines have not been released yet, based on previous requirements, candidates will likely need to meet the following criteria:
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Be a South African citizen with a valid ID
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Be between the ages of 18 and 35
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Have a Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or equivalent
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Be proficient in English and at least one other official language
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Have no criminal record
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Have no visible tattoos when wearing a police uniform
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Be medically, physically, and mentally fit
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A valid driver’s license is an advantage
What Happens After Applying?
Successful applicants will begin training in early 2026 through the Basic Police Development Learning Programme (BPDLP). This includes:
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Crime prevention techniques
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Legal studies and policing ethics
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Firearms and physical training
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Community-based policing skills
After completing the programme, trainees will be deployed to various police stations around South Africa.
How to Prepare While You Wait
While applications aren’t open yet, you can take the following steps now:
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Get fit for the physical assessments
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Prepare certified copies of your ID, Matric certificate, and any other required documents
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Follow SAPS updates on their official website and social media
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Beware of scams and only use official SAPS platforms to apply
Conclusion
Although SAPS 2026 applications are not yet open, the official announcement confirms they will open before the end of June 2025. With thousands of positions available and a new online system to streamline the process, this is your opportunity to start a meaningful career in law enforcement.
Stay informed, stay prepared—and be ready to apply online as soon as the applications go live.
