Germany : Applying for jobs

How do I apply for a job?

Jobs are often advertised on recruitment websites (Jobsbörsen) as well as on company websites. Some international companies will have vacancies in both English and German.

While it might be possible to find and apply for jobs from the UK, there will usually be two interviews before a job offer is made. As this process could take some time, it would be unwise to wait until arriving in Germany before starting the job search, but also a good idea to wait for a firm offer before making arrangements to move there.

A CV (Lebenslauf) is required more often than an application form in Germany. It is important to supply exactly what the employer asks for, typically including:

• the CV, with a good quality passport-sized photograph attached to the top right-hand corner;
• a covering letter on a single side of A4;
• copies of all qualifications from secondary school onwards;
• evidence of professional experience, including professional certificates and work samples where appropriate;
• references from universities and previous employers.

See the following websites for more information on working in Germany:

• EURES - European Job Mobility Portal  - (Living and Working in Germany)
• Eurograduate - the European Career Guide  - (Working in Germany)
• Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany  

What kind of CV do I need?

CVs should be in strict reverse chronological order, leaving no gaps unaccounted for. As the information given is usually very factual, without explanation or interpretation, most graduate CVs fit onto a single page. A CV can, however, run to a maximum of two pages.

The CV should include a passport-sized photograph and provide information on your personal and professional development. You should briefly describe your professional experience and achievements, as well as detailing your language skills and level of fluency. Hobbies are usually only mentioned if relevant to the job. It is common in Germany to sign your CV at the bottom.

The covering letter should briefly express why you are seeking a job, what interests you about the post and why you think you are the best person to do the job.

The working abroad section of the Eurograduate - the European Career Guide has an example of a German CV.

What will the interview process be like?

There are often two interviews for professional positions: one with personnel, which will focus on personality and motivation; followed by a second with a manager from your intended department, which will address technical knowledge and skills. Psychological and aptitude tests are usual and assessment centres are commonly used for managerial positions.

See the Eurograduate - the European Career Guide (Working in Germany) website for more information.

Will my UK qualifications be recognised?

Visit the ENIC-NARIC website for information on how to find out about the comparability of your academic qualifications.

The UK National Europass Centre (UK NEC) gives information on how to make your skills and qualifications easily understood in other European countries, including Germany.

Do I still need to pay UK tax and National Insurance?

If you are planning to live and work in Germany, check your UK tax and National Insurance position with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to ensure that you are not losing any UK pension rights.