A German Lebenslauf is usually a structured, tabular CV of one to two pages, often submitted with a cover letter (Anschreiben) and certificates. A photo is still common in some sectors but increasingly optional.
Last reviewed 2026-10-25
At a glance
- Document name
- Lebenslauf
- Typical length
- 1–2 pages
- Layout
- Structured, often tabular
- Photo
- Sector-dependent, increasingly optional
- Extras
- Anschreiben + certificates
Structure of a German CV
German CVs are organized and factual. A common order is personal details, work experience, education, skills, and certifications, presented in a consistent table or two-column layout with dates on the left. Reverse chronological order is expected.
Applications often include a short cover letter (Anschreiben) and copies of relevant certificates (Zeugnisse). Send the CV and letter as separate documents unless the employer asks for one file.
- Reverse chronological experience with month and year dates.
- Education and vocational training, including apprenticeships.
- Language levels stated clearly (for example B2, C1).
- Certificates and references available on request or attached.
Photo, signature, and personal details
A formal application photo was historically standard and is still common in conservative sectors such as banking, law, and parts of the public sector. Technology and international companies increasingly accept a CV without one. Check the posting and the company's tone before including a photo.
Some traditional templates include a date and signature at the end. It is not required by every employer, but it is not harmful in a conservative application. Personal details such as marital status and nationality were once standard; today they are usually optional and should be limited to what the role requires.
Language and terminology
Write in German unless the posting is explicitly in English. A German CV written in English for a German-speaking team signals a mismatch. If the role is English-speaking, an English CV is appropriate and the employer will usually say so.
Use German job titles where they exist, and give the English equivalent in brackets if you are applying to an international team. Keep dates in the German format (DD.MM.YYYY) when the rest of the document is in German.
Common mistakes
- Sending only a CV when the posting asks for an Anschreiben and certificates.
- Using an informal, narrative style instead of a structured CV.
- Writing in English for a role that is conducted in German.
- Leaving unexplained gaps in a document that expects a complete timeline.
German CV (Lebenslauf) format FAQs
Do I need a photo on a German CV?
It depends on the sector. It is still common in conservative industries and some public-sector applications, but many technology and international employers accept a CV without one. Check the posting.
What is an Anschreiben?
It is the German cover letter. It is usually one page, formally addressed, and connects your experience to the specific role. Many applications expect it alongside the Lebenslauf.
Should I include certificates?
Attach the ones the posting asks for, or the most relevant degree and vocational certificates. Keep the full set ready for the interview.
Can I send an English CV?
Yes for English-speaking roles or international teams. For a German-speaking team, write in German unless the posting says otherwise.
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