Country CV guide
German CV Format: How to Write a Lebenslauf
A German Lebenslauf isn't just a translated résumé — it follows conventions a US or UK CV doesn't, and one of the biggest of those conventions has been quietly changing for years.
This is what the Bundesagentur für Arbeit — Germany's Federal Employment Agency — actually says today, not what's still repeated from a decade-old blog post.
At a glance
| Field | What to do |
|---|---|
| Photo | Optional |
| Date of birth | Standard practice |
| Nationality | Optional |
| Marital status | Optional |
| Address | Standard practice |
| Signature | Optional |
| Personal statement / summary | Leave it out |
| References | Leave it out |
Why, in detail
- A photo is no longer required. The Bundesagentur für Arbeit states it is 'kein Muss mehr' — no longer a must. Many applicants still include one, but leaving it out is entirely normal.
- Nationality and marital status are explicitly voluntary. You only need to state your religion if the employer asks.
- Date and place of birth are listed among the standard personal details.
- Signing isn't strictly necessary, but a place, date and signature signal that the CV is current and accurate.
- One to two A4 pages, in table form, most recent entry first.
- Month and year are enough for dates — you don't need exact days.
- Account for any gap longer than two months.
Sourced from the official guidance, last checked 2026-08-10.
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