Germany goes against the English-speaking model
If you've read our guides to the American CV or the CV in English, set some of those rules aside for Germany. The German CV, the *Lebenslauf*, follows the opposite logic on several points: it expects a photo, personal details, and a very detailed structure. It is one of the most codified formats in Europe.
A professional photo is expected
Unlike in the United States or the United Kingdom, a photo (the *Bewerbungsfoto*) is standard in Germany. It is often taken by a professional photographer, as a portrait, in attire suited to the industry. A Lebenslauf without a photo can look incomplete. See our guide should you put a photo on your CV.
Personal details are customary
Again unlike the English-speaking model, it is common to include your date of birth, sometimes your place of birth and nationality. Marital status remains optional. These details are not seen as discriminatory in German HR culture; they are part of the expected format.
A clear, detailed structure
The Lebenslauf is rigorous and in reverse chronological order (most recent experience first). The standard sections:
1. Persönliche Daten: name, contact details, date of birth, photo.
2. Berufserfahrung: work experience, with dates (MM/YYYY), company, job title, and achievements.
3. Ausbildung: education and degrees.
4. Kenntnisse: skills (languages with proficiency level, tools, certifications).
5. Sometimes Interessen: hobbies and interests.
The tone is factual and precise, with no marketing flourish. German recruiters value rigor and clarity over catchy phrasing.
Format and length
- Length: two pages are accepted and often expected for an experienced candidate.
- Dates in MM/YYYY format.
- In the most formal settings, the document is signed and dated at the bottom.
- A cover letter (*Anschreiben*) almost always accompanies the CV, and it carries a lot of weight.
Mistakes to avoid
- Sending a CV without a photo when one is expected.
- Removing your date of birth out of an "English-speaking" reflex: in Germany, it is customary.
- A tone that is too promotional: stick to facts and figures.
- Neglecting the *Anschreiben*, which matters as much as the CV.
- A CV in English when the job posting is in German: match the language of the posting.
Adapt your CV for Germany with CVpass
On CVpass, choose "Germany" as your target country. The tool translates your CV into German, keeps the photo and the expected personal details, adopts the structure and vocabulary of the Lebenslauf, and adjusts the date format. Your ATS score is recalculated against German expectations, with tailored suggestions.
Further reading
- Applying abroad: the country-by-country CV guide
- CV in English: adapting your CV to apply abroad
- Should you put a photo on your CV? The guide by country
- British CV: the rules for applying in the UK
Apply in Germany with a Lebenslauf that meets local standards. Adapt my CV for Germany on CVpass