A successful application is short, tailored and easy to read: a CV of no more than two pages and a cover letter of about one page, written for this specific job and in the language the employer uses. Follow the instructions in the ad exactly – and check the local habits of the country, because they differ more than you might think.
The general rule
EURES gives the same basic advice for every European country:
- CV: at most two pages, short sentences, positive language and “active” verbs. Adapt it to each job and keep only what matters – recruiters have little time. EURES recommends the Europass CV, because it makes your qualifications and experience easy to compare across countries.
- Cover letter: about one page, in roughly four paragraphs – why you are interested and where you saw the job, how your profile fits, one or two key skills from your CV, and that you are available for an interview.
- Language: unless the ad says otherwise, write in the employer’s national language or in the language of the job ad. English often works for international jobs.
- Accuracy: proofread everything; use a dictionary or ask for help if you write in a foreign language.
- References: give contact details only of people who have agreed to it.
Show what you can do
Little work experience? EURES suggests listing what you did at university and outside it – projects, volunteering, sports teams, student associations, student jobs and internships. Organising an event shows project management; tutoring other students shows communication skills. Being a quick learner or a good team player are “soft” skills that employers value.
What differs between countries
- In Germany, if you apply by email, put everything into one PDF file (max. 2 MB).
- In Ireland many employers use their own application forms instead of (or as well as) a CV.
- In Sweden an application is short and to the point; certificates and references are sent only if the ad asks for them.
- In Spain the cover letter should be written for this specific job, not a standard letter.
- In Austria some employers also welcome a short application video.
- In Poland and Slovakia the cover letter is usually signed by hand.
Practical tips
- Read the ad twice and answer what the employer asks for – deadline, documents, format, language.
- Before the interview, learn about the company and prepare examples of difficult situations you have handled – EURES recommends both.
- Follow up politely if you hear nothing. In the Netherlands you can contact the company after 14 days; in Ireland it is fine to phone after about four weeks.
Read more
For details, see our guides Your CV and the Europass profile and Cover letter and application: how to stand out. When you are invited, read The job interview: online and face to face. What employers expect in each country is described in our guides to working in 32 European countries.
Common questions about job applications and interviews
Sources
Updated: October 2026
EN 
CS
DE
ES
FR
HU
IT
PL
PT
РУ
SK
TR
УК
AR
中文