When applying for a job in Germany, a well-prepared CV and cover letter are important, but so are the smaller details that can influence an employer's first impression. From personal information and document translations to the correct format of online applications, knowing the local requirements can help you avoid common mistakes.

The German Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit) has shared practical advice on what applicants should pay attention to when preparing a job application in Germany.

What personal information should you include in your CV?

There are some differences between CV practices in Germany and those in other countries.

• You do not need to include information about your physical characteristics, such as height or weight, or details about your family background, such as your parents' names and dates of birth. Information about marital status and religious affiliation is generally not necessary either. 
• Including a professional photograph in your CV is not compulsory. However, photographs are still commonly used in Germany, and a professional headshot may be an advantage.
• If you are applying from abroad, make sure your contact details are correct and that employers can reach you easily. Remember to include the international country code in your telephone number.
• If you are still living in Estonia, you can mention in your CV that you are available for an online job interview. It may also be useful to indicate in your cover letter when you would be able to relocate to Germany and start working.

Do your documents need to be translated into German?

One common question among international applicants concerns document translations. A certified German translation of every document is not necessarily required when submitting a job application. The requirements depend on the employer, the position and the type of qualifications involved.

Before applying, check the language requirements in the job advertisement. For regulated professions, additional requirements may apply regarding the recognition of professional qualifications and the right to practise the profession in Germany.

Online applications: Keep your documents organised

Most applications in Germany are submitted online, either by email or through an employer's recruitment portal.

Always follow the employer's instructions regarding the format and submission of documents.

If you submit your application by email, make sure that your PDF documents are clearly organised and easy to read. Unless the employer requests otherwise, it may be convenient to combine your application documents into one well-structured PDF file rather than sending numerous separate attachments.

Use clear file names so that the employer can easily identify your documents. For example:

• Firstname_Surname_CV.pdf
• Firstname_Surname_Cover_Letter.pdf
• Firstname_Surname_Diploma.pdf

Before sending your application, check that all pages are legible, the documents are complete, your contact details are correct and you have attached the latest version of your CV.

Which documents should you prepare in advance?

Even if not all documents are required at the initial application stage, it is advisable to have them ready in digital format.

Depending on the position and your individual circumstances, you may need:

• An up-to-date CV and cover letter.
• Diplomas and educational certificates.
• Employment references or other proof of previous work experience.
• Certificates of further education and professional training.
• Language certificates.
• References and work samples, where relevant.
• For international applications, you may also need:
• Documents confirming professional or academic qualifications obtained abroad.
• Academic transcripts or diploma supplements.
• Translations of relevant documents, if required.
• Official decisions confirming the recognition of qualifications, where applicable.
• Proof of German language proficiency, if required.
• Documents confirming authorisation to practise a regulated profession, where applicable.
• Information and documents needed for subsequent residence or visa procedures, if applicable.

Not every document needs to be submitted with the initial application. The requirements depend on the job advertisement, the position and your qualifications.

How to write an email when submitting your application

When sending your application by email, use a professional email address, preferably one containing your first and last name. The subject line should include the German word “Bewerbung” (application), the job title and, if available, the job reference number.

The email itself can be short and straightforward. There is no need to repeat the information already included in your cover letter. Simply introduce your application and refer to the attached documents.

For example: “Please find attached my application for the advertised position of [job title]. My CV, cover letter and relevant certificates are included in the attached PDF file. I would be available to start work from [date].”

Checklist: Before submitting your application

Before sending your application to a German employer, make sure that you have:

• Read the job advertisement carefully.
• Followed the employer's application instructions.
• Prepared an up-to-date CV (ideally no longer than two to three pages).
• Included your international telephone country code.
• Clearly described your work experience and qualifications.
• Indicated your language skills and proficiency levels.
• Tailored your cover letter to the specific position.
• Prepared relevant diplomas and certificates.
• Checked whether translations or recognition of qualifications are required.
• Checked residence and work authorisation requirements, where applicable.
• Checked that all PDF files are readable and correctly named.
• Proofread your documents for spelling and formatting errors.
• Find out more before moving to Germany

Moving to another country for work involves more than finding a suitable vacancy. It is important to understand the local labour market, employment conditions and practical arrangements before making your move.

For further information about working and living in Germany, visit the EURES portal eures.europa.eu:

If you are considering working in Germany or another European country, EURES advisers can provide free information and guidance on job opportunities, working conditions and living in other European countries.

Make your move abroad an informed one – prepare well before applying for a job!