Applying for jobs in Germany, the Netherlands, France or Ireland? CV expectations differ more across Europe than many international candidates expect: photos, length, personal details and even whether to sign your CV vary by country. This guide compares the main European markets and explains when to use an English CV and when Europass makes sense.
European CV conventions compared
| Country | Typical length | Photo | Notable conventions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | 1–2 pages | Optional; still common but not required | Tabular Lebenslauf, clear dates (month/year), gaps explained; certificates and references (Arbeitszeugnisse) often attached; signature and date traditionally added |
| Netherlands | 1–2 pages | Optional | Direct, concise style; motivation letter expected; LinkedIn widely used |
| France | Often 1 page for early careers, 2 for experienced | Optional, less common than in the past | A short headline (titre) under your name; lettre de motivation for many roles |
| Ireland | Up to 2 pages | Not expected | Very similar to the UK CV; personal statement, references often "on request" |
Anti-discrimination rules in EU countries mean you are generally not required to give your age, marital status or a photo. When in doubt, leave them out; include a photo only if it is the norm in your target industry and you are comfortable doing so.
Germany: Lebenslauf vs English CV
- German-language roles: use a German Lebenslauf with a tabular layout and a German cover letter (Anschreiben).
- International companies and English-speaking teams: an English CV is often accepted or preferred. Keep German precision: exact month/year dates and no unexplained gaps.
- Language levels: state them using the CEFR scale, for example "German B2, English C1".
- Qualifications: if your degree is from outside Germany, note whether it has been recognised where your profession requires it.
Netherlands: Dutch CV format
- Keep it short and factual; Dutch recruiters appreciate directness over self-praise.
- Use English if the vacancy is in English; many international roles are.
- Add a short profile at the top and quantify your results.
- A photo is optional; many applicants skip it.
France: English or French CV?
Apply in the language of the job ad. For French-language roles, a French CV and lettre de motivation are expected. Include a clear headline under your name ("Responsable marketing digital – 6 ans d'expérience") and keep early-career CVs to one page.
Ireland: close to the UK format
An Irish CV follows the same structure as a UK CV: contact details, personal statement, experience, education and skills, usually within two pages and without a photo. Do not include your PPS number. Our UK CV format guide applies almost entirely.
Should you use a Europass CV?
Europass is the European Union's free, standardised CV format. It is useful for EU institutions, some public-sector roles, academic and mobility programmes, and when an employer asks for it. For most private-sector jobs, a concise, tailored CV usually makes a stronger impression than a long standard form. If you use Europass, cut empty sections and keep it focused.
An English CV that works across Europe
- One clean column, 1–2 A4 pages.
- Contact details, city and country, LinkedIn, and your work authorisation if relevant (for example "EU citizen" or "Blue Card holder").
- A 3–4 line profile.
- Reverse-chronological experience with month/year dates and measurable results.
- Education with country and, where useful, equivalence.
- Languages with CEFR levels.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a photo on my CV in Germany?
No. It is optional. Some applicants still include one, but employers should not require it, and many international companies prefer CVs without photos.
What is the CEFR scale?
The Common European Framework of Reference describes language levels from A1 (beginner) to C2 (mastery). It is widely understood by European employers.
Is a CV in Europe the same as a resume?
In most of Europe, "CV" is the everyday term for what Americans call a resume. Read our guide to CV vs resume differences.
Conclusion
The safest European CV is concise, precise about dates and languages and free of unnecessary personal details, then adapted to each country's norms. Write it in the job ad's language, keep it to two pages and tailor it with the ATS Keyword Generator.