- A photo is not required by law in Germany.
- Many German employers still expect one; international companies often don't.
- If you add a photo, make it professional and recent.
- Remove personal details such as religion and date of birth.
This is one of the most common questions I get. The short answer: optional, but often helpful at German companies.
What the law says
German anti discrimination law protects applicants from discrimination on grounds such as ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, age and sexual identity (§1 General Equal Treatment Act). Because of this, employers cannot require a photo, and some companies ask you not to send one.
What recruiters expect
Many traditional German companies still expect a photo on a German style CV. International companies and startups usually don't care, and some prefer no photo. I recommend a photo for German companies and no photo when the ad asks for it or when you apply to US style companies.
If you add one
- Use a professional headshot. Neutral background, good light, business clothes.
- Keep it recent. From the last one or two years.
- Place it top right. Next to your contact details.
- No selfies or cropped group photos. They hurt more than help.
Common questions
Is a CV photo mandatory in Germany?
No. It is optional.
Do German companies still want CV photos?
Many traditional companies do; international companies often don't.
What else should I remove from my CV?
Religion, caste, marital status and date of birth are not needed.
I moved to Germany for my master's, collected more than 1,000 rejections, and then got multiple job offers within six months. I work in digital marketing in Germany and help international professionals get hired in Europe. Read my story.