CV, application and job interview in European countries

A complete German application (Bewerbung) usually contains:

• a cover letter – no longer than one A4 page,
• a CV in table form (tabellarischer Lebenslauf) – in reverse chronological order, at most two pages, with contact details, work experience, education and language skills; the Europass format is recommended,
• copies of your certificates and references – work references (Arbeitszeugnisse) are customary in Germany; you may need German translations,
• a photo with a neutral background – still common in German applications.

The interview: learn about the company beforehand and be ready to explain why you chose this occupation and this employer.

Diplomas: for regulated professions (e.g. nurses, doctors, teachers) you need formal recognition. The federal portal Recognition in Germany has a Recognition Finder that shows which authority is responsible for your profession, and a hotline.