Create a German Lebenslauf (CV) With Correct European Standards
Build a professional German CV (Lebenslauf) with Europass-compatible structure, photo conventions, and formatting for the German job market.
Germany CV conventions
| Document type | Lebenslauf (CV, 1-2 pages) |
| Photo | Expected — professional headshot (Bewerbungsfoto) |
| Date of birth | Standard to include |
| Nationality | Often included |
| Date format | MM/YYYY or Month Year |
| Paper size | A4 (210 x 297 mm) |
| Language | German or English (depends on company) |
What you need to know
German CVs (Lebenslauf) differ significantly from American resumes. A professional photo (Bewerbungsfoto) is expected and typically placed in the top-right corner. Date of birth, nationality, and marital status are commonly included. The format is often reverse-chronological with a tabular layout. Education is valued highly in Germany — list your degrees, Abitur grade, and apprenticeship details. For international companies in Germany, an English-language CV following international norms is acceptable.
Do
- Include a professional headshot (Bewerbungsfoto)
- Include date of birth and nationality
- Use a tabular layout for clarity
- List education details including grades
- Include language skills with proficiency levels
- Mention Ausbildung/apprenticeship if applicable
Don't
- Submit without a photo (unless applying to international firms)
- Forget to sign and date the CV (traditional practice)
- Use casual or creative formatting for traditional employers
- Omit education details and grades
- Leave employment gaps unexplained
Frequently asked questions
While not legally required (AGG anti-discrimination law), a professional photo is still expected by most German employers. Omitting it may raise questions, especially at traditional companies.
Write in German for German companies. For international companies based in Germany, English is fine. If the job posting is in English, submit an English CV.
Europass is a standardised European CV format. It is accepted in Germany but not preferred — most German employers prefer a traditional Lebenslauf with a personal photo and tabular layout.