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Great – the CV is done well, the cover letter sounds good, and the application materials for applying in Germany are ready – but there’s actually still something missing: the attachments, also known as appendices.

But what lies behind these attachments?

In the context of application materials, “attachments” or “appendix” refers to complementary documents or files that complete an application and support the information provided in the application.

They help employers quickly see who you are, what your skills are, and whether your qualifications match the job opening.

From this perspective, your application is a complete package consisting of various components, depending on the application guidelines. It is important to always carefully review the requirements listed in the job posting. It doesn't matter whether you apply online or submit a traditional, written application.

In a traditional cover letter, a new heading titled “Attachments” (“Anlagen”) is placed below the signature, with a little space in between. You are welcome to highlight this, for example, by underlining it or using bold type. All documents submitted with the application are listed under this heading. The first thing you'll usually need is your CV.

The CV is followed by the certificates. In Germany, they serve as important forms of documentation, such as proof of school or vocational training completion, or of previous employment. Reports/letters of reference should be chosen carefully. They should be informative and confirm the information provided in the application materials. Certificates of participation in leisure activities or report cards from elementary school do not belong in the attachments.

It is common practice to provide certificates of the highest school-leaving degree, vocational qualifications, and, of course, a university degree, if applicable.

Similarly, employment references from previous employers or internship certificates are important attachments.

For applications from abroad, there is another important category of attachments. The recognition documents issued for foreign qualifications. Depending on the profession in Germany, these may have different names. For example, the terms used here include the ZAB certificate evaluation, the recognition notice, the deficiency or determination notice, the equivalence notice, partial recognition, the medical license, the professional license, and the license to practice. Please include the document you have on hand that best reflects the status of your professional recognition in your specific case.

Even though this list may sound a bit confusing, the recognition documents help employers quickly determine that the education completed abroad has already been officially verified. This helps avoid follow-up questions and makes a professional impression on employers.

For foreign certificates that are not written in German or English, a translation is often helpful. Ideally, you should include a certified translation with your application materials.

In addition, it may be helpful to include proof of your German language skills. Here, too, a certificate included in the application materials is appreciated. For example, use certificates that assess your language skills according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, i.e., with levels ranging from A1 to C2.

Proof of your driver's license may also be required if it is necessary for the advertised position. For example, if you are applying for a job as a bus driver, it is important for employers to know where and when you obtained your driver's license and which driving categories you are licensed for.

Depending on the position you are applying for, documentation of your additional qualifications may also be relevant to your application. These may include, among other things, a forklift operator’s license, a welding certificate, IT certifications, continuing education in nursing, or even a first-aid course.

Although supporting documents are generally welcome in German job applications, it is important to choose the right ones. After all, more isn't always better.

Documents that do not belong in the attachments include, for example, your birth certificate, your immunization record, or personal photos.

Normally, you list the attached documents as follows: First, list your CV, then your employment references, educational and school transcripts, the recognition notice, and finally, if available, the relevant language certificates. If necessary, additional certificates will follow, such as a driver's license.

Always select the relevant attachments based on the specific job posting, because a well-organized and clearly structured attachment complements your application and makes a good impression.

These selection criteria for attachments also apply to digital application formats. Here, too, you should always refer to the job posting and attach only relevant documents. Of course, there is no need to list the attached documents under the heading “Attachments” if you are not including a cover letter. However, you will usually see a list of the required documents on the respective application portal.

Once this selection has been made, everything is included!