German CV format (Lebenslauf): what employers expect
A German CV follows its own rules. Here is the layout the Federal Employment Agency describes, in plain English.
Last checked: November 2026. This is general guidance. Employers say in each advert which documents they want, so follow the advert first. Official advice: Federal Employment Agency: the curriculum vitae
A German CV (Lebenslauf) is written in table form, is no longer than two pages, and lists your experience with the most recent first. A photo is not mandatory, but most employers still expect one. You finish the CV with the date and your signature, and you send it with a cover letter and copies of your certificates.
What goes in, in order
| Section | What to write |
|---|---|
| Personal details | Name and contact details. A professional photo at the top of the CV or on a cover sheet is optional but widely expected. Marital status and religion are not required. |
| Professional experience | Start with your most recent job. Give the start and end dates (month and year is enough), the employer, your position, and three to five bullet points on your tasks. |
| Education and training | Vocational training or studies, then further training, most recent first. |
| Skills | Languages, IT skills and other knowledge relevant to the job. |
| Interests | Only if they relate to the job. Volunteer work and club memberships are well regarded. |
| Date and signature | Close the CV with the date and your signature. |
Rules that are different from a UK or US CV
- Table layout. Dates on the left, details on the right, in clear sections.
- The photo. Employers are not allowed to demand one, but it is still common. Some employers ask for anonymised CVs with no photo.
- Certificates. Attach copies of degrees, training certificates and reference letters from previous jobs.
- Cover letter. About one A4 page, written for that job, explaining why you want the position and why you fit.
- Language. Have the CV proofread by a native German speaker if you write it in German.
- Europass. The Europass template is a solid base, but many employers prefer a more individual CV.
Free template to start from
Our templates are one column with plain headings, which works for English-language applications to international companies in Germany. Add your date and signature at the end.
Questions people ask
Do I need a photo on a German CV?
It is not mandatory and employers may not demand it, but Germany's Federal Employment Agency says most employers still expect one. Use a professional photo at the top of the CV or on a cover sheet.
How long should a German CV be?
No longer than two pages, in table form, with the most recent entries first.
Do I have to sign a German CV?
Yes, it is the convention. End the CV with the date and your signature.
Can I apply in English in Germany?
Follow the language of the job advert. If the advert is in German, apply in German and have a native speaker proofread it.
Jobs in Germany for English speakers · UK CV format · All career guides