European CV format: example and tips
Europe has no single CV style, but most countries share the same base: one to two factual pages, A4 paper, and the language of the job post. The main differences are the photo and how much personal detail to share.
At a glance
| What it is called | CV (in German Lebenslauf, in Spanish currículum) |
|---|---|
| Length | 1–2 pages in most countries |
| Paper size | A4 |
| Photo | Depends on the country (see the table) |
| Personal details | Name, city, phone, email and LinkedIn. Date of birth and marital status are not needed in most countries. |
| Language | The language of the job post; English for international companies |
Country by country
| Country | Length | Photo | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Germany | 1–2 pages | Common, optional | Exact dates (MM/YYYY); certificates sent separately |
| United Kingdom & Ireland | Up to 2 pages | Leave out | A short personal statement at the top |
| France | 1 page (2 if senior) | Optional | Starts with a short “Profil”; French for local roles |
| Netherlands & Belgium | 1–2 pages | Optional | Direct and factual; list your languages |
| Spain & Italy | 1–2 pages | Optional, still common | A local-language CV for local roles |
| Nordic countries | 1–2 pages | Optional | Plain, modest tone; a personal profile is welcome |
| Switzerland & Austria | 2 pages | Common, optional | Say your work permit status if you are not from the EU or EFTA |
Example
Free while Seerty is in beta.
Local tips
- Give language levels on the European CEFR scale (A1 to C2), for example “English C1, German B1”.
- The EU’s Europass CV is accepted everywhere, but many private employers prefer a shorter CV like the example below.
- If you are not an EU citizen, say whether you have a work permit or need sponsorship.
- Add the local name or equivalent of your degree when it may be unfamiliar.
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
Asia 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