How to write a German CV (Lebenslauf)
A Lebenslauf is precise and factual, usually laid out as a table with dates on the left. A photo has not been required since the 2006 anti-discrimination law, yet most candidates still include one. It traditionally ends with place, date and signature.
Countries covered: Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein
At a glance
| Photo | Common (professional) |
|---|---|
| Length | 1–2 pages |
| Paper | A4 |
| Date of birth | Often included |
| Specific | Place, date and signature at the bottom |
What to include
- “Persönliche Daten”: name, address, phone, email.
- Exact dates to the month (03/2022 – heute).
- Gaps in employment, explained in one line.
- Your German level, even if basic.
- In Switzerland: nationality and residence permit.
What to avoid
- Unexplained gaps.
- A poor-quality photo.
- A sales-pitch tone: stay factual.
Section order
- Lebenslauf (title) and personal details
- Berufserfahrung (experience)
- Ausbildung (education)
- Kenntnisse (skills) and languages
- Interessen (interests)
- Place, date, signature