FAQ
German CV questions, answered.
Still wondering whether your CV will pass muster? You’re not alone — and the honest answer is often “it depends on the employer”. Here’s what we can say with confidence.
What is the standard German CV format?
The standard is the tabellarischer Lebenslauf: a reverse-chronological table with dates in a narrow left column and job titles, employers, degrees and skills on the right. It usually fits on one to two A4 pages and covers personal details, work experience, education, skills and languages. A photo, a date of birth and a place-and-date line are common but optional, and expectations differ by industry, so always check the job ad.
Do I need a photo on a German CV?
No. A photo is common in Germany, but it is not a legal requirement, and plenty of international companies and startups prefer CVs without one. If you add a photo, keep it professional: head and shoulders, plain background, good lighting. If the job ad says no photo, or you are applying to a multinational, leave it out.
How long should a German CV be?
One to two pages is the usual range. Early-career applicants tend to fit everything on one page, while people with a long track record may use two. Beyond two pages you risk losing the reader, so trim older or less relevant roles instead of shrinking the font.
Should I write my CV in English or German?
Mirror the job ad. If the ad is in German, apply in German. If the ad is in English, or the team works in English, as many tech, startup and research teams in Germany do, an English CV is normally fine. This builder produces English CVs in the German layout, so translate the final text yourself if you need a German version.
What is the difference between a German CV and a Europass CV?
A German CV is a plain tabular document that most German recruiters know well. Europass is the European Union’s standardised CV template, with fixed sections and a language self-assessment grid. German employers do accept Europass, but many simply expect the standard tabular CV, especially in the private sector. When the ad does not say, the plain German format is the safer default.
Do I need to include my date of birth, nationality or marital status?
None of them is required. Date of birth and nationality were traditionally listed and still appear on many CVs, but a growing number of applicants leave them out, particularly when applying internationally. Marital status and children are rarely included today. Germany’s General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) aims to prevent discrimination in hiring, so you are generally free to share less. This is general information, not legal advice.
Should I sign my German CV?
A place, a date and a handwritten signature at the bottom are the traditional ending for a paper application. For online applications the signature is optional and many candidates skip it. Our builder lets you switch a place-and-date line with a signature space on or off, so you can follow whichever convention fits the employer.
What is an Anschreiben and do I need one?
Anschreiben is the German word for cover letter. Most German job applications expect one unless the ad says otherwise. It is typically a single page that explains why you fit the role and the company. Premium includes an AI tool that drafts an English Anschreiben from your CV and the job description; read it, edit it and make it yours before you send it.
Which documents go with a German CV?
Employers often ask for certificates (Zeugnisse) as separate attachments: degree certificates, transcripts and, if you have them, work references (Arbeitszeugnisse). Send what the ad asks for and no more. The reference letter our tool generates is an Empfehlungsschreiben draft for your referee to review and sign. It is not an Arbeitszeugnis, which only a former employer can issue.
Can I use this CV for a German university or visa application?
Possibly, but requirements differ. Some universities and programmes ask for a tabular CV, others provide their own form, and portals such as uni-assist or embassy checklists may have specific rules. Always check the official instructions from the university, the DAAD or Make it in Germany before you submit. Our tool creates a clean, standard CV; it cannot promise acceptance by any institution or authority.
Is the German CV builder free?
Yes. You can build your CV and download the PDF for free once you create a free account. Premium costs €6.99 per month and adds AI import, job-ad tailoring, cover-letter and recommendation-letter drafts and DOCX export. There is a 14-day money-back guarantee and you can cancel at any time.
Last updated: 24 October 2026