Asia CV format: example and tips
Asia is too varied for one rule. Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines and South Asia mostly follow a British or American style, while Japan, Korea and China have local customs such as a photo or a standard form.
At a glance
| What it is called | CV or resume; in Japan a standard form called rirekisho |
|---|---|
| Length | 1–2 pages in most countries |
| Paper size | A4 |
| Photo | Common in Japan, Korea and China; optional elsewhere |
| Personal details | Name, city, phone, email and LinkedIn. Date of birth is still common in East Asia; leave out ID card numbers everywhere. |
| Language | English for international companies; the local language for local employers |
Country by country
| Country | Length | Photo | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| India | 1–2 pages | Not needed | Skills first; give your notice period |
| Pakistan | 2 pages | Optional | Leave out your CNIC number |
| Philippines | 1–2 pages | Often asked locally | Name your PRC licence if you have one |
| Bangladesh, Sri Lanka & Nepal | 2 pages | Optional | English CV; list professional certificates |
| Singapore & Malaysia | 1–2 pages | Optional | Never put your NRIC or MyKad number |
| Japan | Rirekisho form + a 1–2 page career history | Usually on the rirekisho | Foreign companies often accept an English CV |
| South Korea | 1–2 pages | Common in private firms | Public-sector “blind hiring” leaves out the photo and personal details |
| China & Hong Kong | 1–2 pages | Common in mainland China; optional in Hong Kong | Bilingual CVs (English and Chinese) are common |
Example
Free while Seerty is in beta.
Local tips
- When you apply abroad, follow the customs of the country you apply to, not your home country.
- Write your name as it appears in your passport, and say which name you go by if it is different.
- Leave out ID card, passport and visa numbers: employers ask for them later.
- Show your languages clearly, for example “English (fluent), Tagalog (native)”.
Is this format ATS-friendly?
Yes. Whatever the country, keep one column, real text and standard headings. Every CV made with Seerty is built this way, so you can follow local customs without confusing applicant tracking systems.
Customs change between employers and industries. When a job post asks for something specific, follow the job post.
Other countries
Europe Middle East & North Africa Africa Latin America United States United Kingdom Canada Australia Germany UAE Saudi Arabia Bahrain Qatar India Pakistan Philippines Egypt
Created by Seerty in Bahrain, for job seekers everywhere