German cover letters (Anschreiben): structure and useful phrases

Many German companies, especially in tech and in online application processes, no longer require an Anschreiben. In more traditional sectors (manufacturing, public administration, healthcare, family-owned businesses) it is still expected. When an ad asks for "vollständige Bewerbungsunterlagen" (complete application documents), assume the letter is part of it.

For international applicants the letter has an extra benefit: it is the right place to explain your visa situation, your readiness to relocate and why you want to work in Germany — and at that company — specifically.

• One page at most.
• At the top: your details, the company's details, city and date.
• A bold subject line (Betreff) naming the role and, if given, the job reference number.
• A personal salutation whenever the ad names the hiring contact.
• Three to four short paragraphs, a closing line and your signature.

Avoid opening with "Hiermit bewerbe ich mich..." ("I hereby apply..."), the most worn-out opening there is. Start with a sentence that connects you to the role instead: a relevant achievement, a concrete reason you are interested in the company, or how you came across the opportunity.

Pick two or three requirements from the ad and show, with examples, that you meet them. Do not repeat your CV: the letter is there to add context and show the thinking behind your achievements.

Show that you have researched the company: product, market, values, recent projects. If you are outside Germany, state your plan clearly: the visa you intend to apply for, whether your degree has been recognised, your current German level and a realistic start date.

End by saying you are available for a conversation and, if the ad asks for it, give your salary expectation (as an annual gross figure) and your earliest possible start date (frühestmöglicher Eintrittstermin).

• Named salutation: "Sehr geehrte Frau Müller," / "Sehr geehrter Herr Schmidt,"
• No name available: "Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren," (only when there really is no name)
• Interview request: "Über die Einladung zu einem persönlichen Gespräch freue ich mich sehr."
• Sign-off: "Mit freundlichen Grüßen" followed by your name
• In English: "Dear Ms Müller," ... "Kind regards,"

• Getting the company's or contact person's name wrong (common with recycled letters).
• Writing in German with machine translation and no review when your real level is basic — it shows in the interview.
• Talking only about what you want ("I want to grow") and nothing about what you offer.
• Going over one page.