How to Write a German CV (Lebenslauf) as a Foreigner — Full Guide

The Format Germans Actually Expect

Unlike the narrative, achievement-focused resumes common in the US, the German Lebenslauf is typically reverse chronological, tabular in structure, one to two pages long, and often includes a photo in the top corner. That photo point catches many foreign applicants off guard, but it remains common in traditional German hiring, especially outside large multinational firms.

• Reverse chronological order
• Clear dates in a left-hand column
• One to two pages, rarely longer
• A professional photo is still common

What Sections to Include

A standard Lebenslauf usually runs through personal details, a photo, work experience, education, language skills, technical skills, and additional qualifications. Each section should be simple and scannable rather than narrative.

• Personal details: name, address, phone, email, date of birth, nationality
• Work experience: company, title, dates, and 2–3 bullet points per role
• Education: degree, institution, graduation dates
• Language skills: rated by CEFR level
• IT and technical skills: software, tools, certifications

Language: German or English?

If you are applying to a German company for a role that operates in German, submit your CV in German. If you are applying to an international company or a tech role known to operate in English, an English CV is usually fine, but check the job listing language itself as the best signal. Having both versions ready can show preparation.

The Cover Letter Still Matters

Germany still treats the Anschreiben, or cover letter, as a genuinely important part of the application. A generic cover letter is one of the fastest ways to get filtered out. It should reference the company, the role, and why your background fits, rather than simply repeating your CV.

Getting Your Qualifications Recognized

If your degree or vocational training was earned outside Germany, it is worth checking its status on the ANABIN database before you apply, especially for regulated professions like healthcare, engineering, or teaching. Even when formal recognition is not strictly required, noting recognition status on your CV signals that you have done your homework.

Common Mistakes Foreign Applicants Make

The most common issues are submitting a narrative-style US-style resume instead of the tabular German format, leaving off the photo for traditional employers, using vague language descriptions, skipping the cover letter, and overstating German fluency.

• Using a narrative US-style resume instead of a tabular German format
• Leaving off the photo when applying to traditional German companies
• Using vague language descriptions instead of CEFR levels
• Skipping the cover letter or sending a generic one
• Overstating German fluency

Frequently Asked Questions

The short answer is that German CVs are usually more structured, more concise, and more formal than the CVs common in the US and UK, and they are often paired with a tailored cover letter.

• Do I need a photo on my German CV? It is not legally required, but it remains standard practice in many contexts.
• Should my German CV be in English or German? Match the job listing's language where possible, and use German for traditional German employers.
• How long should a German CV be? One to two pages is the norm.
• Is a cover letter really necessary? Yes — a tailored cover letter is often what differentiates otherwise similar applications.

Salary range

Application steps

1. 1Format your CV in a reverse-chronological, tabular layout.
2. 2Add a professional photo if the employer or sector is traditional or German-speaking.
3. 3Use CEFR levels for language skills and keep your content concise.
4. 4Prepare a tailored cover letter for each application.
5. 5Check recognition status for degrees or vocational training if relevant.