How to apply for jobs in Germany: a step-by-step guide
Job applications in Germany follow their own rules. If you know them, you will hear back far more often – especially from small and mid-sized employers.
Germany is short of workers in logistics, care, hospitality, skilled trades and manufacturing. Yet many applications fail on formalities: no cover letter, a CV in the wrong format, or unclear qualifications. This guide explains what German employers look for.
What a German application includes
- Anschreiben (cover letter): one page, written for this specific job, usually in German.
- Lebenslauf (CV): a table-style CV, one to two pages, often with a photo.
- Documents: certificates, references and – where needed – proof of recognition and a language certificate.
Small companies usually accept a simple email with a short cover letter and your CV as a PDF. Large companies mostly use online forms.
Step by step
- Find jobs. Germany's largest job board is the Jobbörse of the Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit). Many small employers only advertise there, often with a direct email address for applications.
- Adapt your CV to the German format: most recent job first, dates as month/year, two to four bullet points per job.
- Write a separate cover letter for each company. Recruiters spot copy-paste letters instantly.
- Send a clean email: a clear subject line, a short message, PDF attachments under 5 MB in total.
- Follow up politely after about two weeks if you have not heard back.
Recognition of foreign qualifications
For regulated professions such as nursing, medicine or teaching you need official recognition before you can work as a qualified professional. For most other jobs it is optional but helps employers understand your qualification. The official portal Recognition in Germany tells you which authority is responsible.
Stating your German level
Use the European framework (A1–C2) and mention certificates (Goethe, telc, ÖSD). Be honest – “B1, currently taking a B2 course” builds more trust than an overstatement that shows in the interview.
- A2–B1 is often enough for warehouse, production, cleaning or kitchen jobs.
- B1–B2 is expected in retail, service and many skilled trades.
- B2 or higher is required in care, office jobs and most professional roles.
Work permits
EU citizens can work in Germany without a permit. For non-EU citizens there are several residence permits, such as the skilled worker visa, the EU Blue Card or the Opportunity Card (Chancenkarte) for job seekers. Current, binding information is on Make it in Germany, the German government's official portal.
German cover letter examples by job
Frequently asked questions
Can I find a job in Germany without speaking German?+
In some jobs – warehouse, production, cleaning, and many tech roles – basic German or English can be enough. But better German opens far more doors and usually means higher pay.
Should my CV be in German?+
For jobs in Germany a German CV works best. International companies and the tech sector often accept English.
Do I need a photo on my CV?+
Photos are common in Germany but not required. If you use one, choose a professional portrait with a neutral background.
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