Retiring from the Civil Service
The full retirement process — from notification timelines and pension calculations to your final Certificate of Service, whether you are reaching statutory age or retiring voluntarily.
Know Your Retirement Eligibility
The statutory retirement age is 60 years. Every December 1st, the Permanent Secretary of PMO provides Heads of Department with a list of officers due to retire in the coming year. You must notify your Head of Department at least 12 months before your intended retirement date. Voluntary retirement is available from age 45 with 6 months' written notice (or payment of 6 months' salary in lieu of notice).
What type of retirement applies to you?
Pension Calculation and Election
Your Head of Department prepares the official pension form. The Director of National Treasury calculates your pension and gratuity entitlement, which is then certified by the Auditor General. Before your retirement date, you will be informed of the option to elect a reduced pension with a lump-sum gratuity, or a full pension without gratuity. The Pensions Authority authorizes final payment.
Use All Remaining Leave
You must take all your remaining leave entitlement before your retirement date. Any untaken leave is forfeited — it cannot be converted to cash payment. Plan your final leave period carefully with your supervisor to ensure a smooth handover of duties.
Complete the Handover
Before departing, you must hand over all duties, files, equipment, and government property to your successor or designated officer. Prepare handover notes covering your responsibilities, ongoing matters, and any issues likely to arise in the next three months. All inventories must be checked and signed by both parties.
Receive Your Certificate of Service
Upon retirement, you are entitled to a Certificate of Service on the prescribed official form from your Head of Department. This document records your service history and is an important record for future reference. Your pension payments will be processed through the Pensions Authority and the Director of National Treasury.
Scenario Complete
For the full legal text, see: GO Ch. 2 and PPM Ch. 12