German CV format (Lebenslauf): what employers in Germany expect

Structure of a Lebenslauf

• Persönliche Daten: name, address, phone and email. Date of birth and nationality are still common but optional.
• Berufserfahrung: work experience in reverse chronological order, with month and year in a two-column layout: dates on the left, role and achievements on the right.
• Ausbildung: education, degrees and vocational training.
• Kenntnisse: skills, IT tools, and language skills with CEFR levels such as Deutsch C1, Englisch C2.
• Optional: certifications, volunteer work and relevant interests.

Photo and personal details

Germany's equal treatment law means employers cannot require a photo, and many international companies now prefer CVs without one. A professional photo is still common at traditional employers. If you include one, use a recent, neutral headshot. Leave out religion, health and family details unless you choose to share them.

Length, gaps and dates

One to two pages. German recruiters read dates closely, so use month and year and explain gaps briefly and honestly, for example Elternzeit (parental leave), further training or a job search.

The full application

A typical application, the Bewerbung, includes a cover letter (Anschreiben), the Lebenslauf, and copies of degrees and employer references (Arbeitszeugnisse). Many online portals now ask only for a CV and cover letter; send what the posting asks for. Write in the language of the job advertisement.

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