What goes on a Swiss CV?
| Part | What to include |
|---|---|
| Header | Name, address, one phone number, a professional email |
| Personal details | Date of birth, nationality, permit (B, C, G) if you are not Swiss |
| Photo | Recent, professional, neutral background, no selfie |
| Experience | Latest job first: dates, company, place, role, 2 to 4 results |
| Education | Degrees with year, relevant courses and certificates |
| Languages | With level, for example German B2, French B1 |
| References | Two contacts or "references on request" |
Why date of birth, nationality and permit?
Swiss recruiters expect them. The permit answers a practical question: can the company hire you without extra paperwork? If you already hold a B, C or G permit, put it where it is easy to see.
How is it different from the US or UK?
- Photo and date of birth are normal in German-speaking Switzerland.
- Reference letters from employers (Arbeitszeugnisse) are usually attached. If you have them, include those for your recent jobs.
- No signature, no place, no date at the end of the CV.
- Length: one to two pages. Three only for very long careers or academic paths.
What does a Swiss cover letter look like?
- Subject line with the exact job title and any reference number.
- Greeting by name if you can find it.
- Opening: which role, and the one reason it fits you.
- Two short paragraphs matching two or three requirements from the ad with real examples.
- Why this company, in one or two sentences.
- Closing with your start date and that you look forward to a conversation.
- Sign-off: "Freundliche Grüsse" in German letters, "Kind regards" in English letters.
English or German?
Apply in the language of the job ad. If the ad is in German and your German is limited, say so honestly in your CV under languages and write the letter in the ad's language if you can do it well.
How can Jobsi help?
Jobsi shows you matching jobs in Switzerland every morning and prepares a cover letter and CV in Swiss format for each job you want, based on your real experience. You review it and send it yourself. The site is available in English at jobsi.ch/en. The free plan includes 3 dossiers, the 90-day pass costs CHF 69 once, no subscription.
By Tobias Schär, founder of Jobsi (True North Studios, Uster).
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a photo on my CV in Switzerland?
It is not a legal requirement, but in German-speaking Switzerland it is very common and often expected. Use a recent, professional photo.
Should I put my permit on my Swiss CV?
Yes. If you are not Swiss, state your nationality and your permit, for example B, C or G. Employers need to know whether they can hire you.
How long should a Swiss cover letter be?
One A4 page at most, usually four to five short paragraphs with a clear link to the job ad.
Do I sign my CV in Switzerland?
No. Unlike in Germany, Swiss CVs are not signed and need no place or date.