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Bewerbungsfoto for the German job market

A photo on the CV is still the norm in Germany — and HR teams expect a specific look. Here is the modern standard.

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The traditional German Bewerbungsfoto is 45×60 mm at 300 DPI, mounted in the top-right of the first CV page or on a separate Deckblatt. While not legally required since the AGG (2006), 70% of German employers still expect one for office and customer-facing roles.

Use a plain light grey or off-white background, business-appropriate clothing (blazer, button-up shirt, blouse), and natural makeup. The crop should show head plus shoulders — not just the face.

Export at 540×720 px (45×60 mm @ 300 DPI) JPG quality 90, and embed it directly in the Word/PDF CV. Avoid square Instagram-style crops; German HR expects portrait orientation.

FAQ

Is a CV photo legally required in Germany?

No — the AGG bans discrimination based on it. But it is still cultural standard for most office roles.

Can I use a phone selfie?

Technically yes, but professional studio photos still test better in HR studies.

Color background?

Stick to neutral light grey or white. Colored backgrounds (especially blue) read as US-style and feel out of place on a German CV.
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