cover letter for germany work visa

German Cover Letter Guide [With English Sample]

Researched & written

by Yvonne Koppen

May 27, 2024

A cover letter ( Anschreiben ) might be the least important thing of the application in some countries; however, not so in Germany. Depending on the company and recruiter receiving your application, a German cover letter might be the most essential part after your CV.

A  survey  of HR Recruiters in Germany states that 42% ignore an application without an individual cover letter. The same survey also shows that for 71% of HR, a cover letter is an essential document in a job application. A job application letter conveys your level of professionalism, research capabilities, and ability to sell yourself without much fluff. 

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Simple German cover letter sample in English

A cover letter in Germany ( Anschreiben ) needs to complement  your CV , but not repeat it. You can regard a cover letter as a letter of motivation filled with examples and facts. A cover letter in Germany is a very formal document that should follow a particular layout.

Read Our Related Guide

German CV Template in English

Our German-Style CV Template In English helps you to craft a killer CV. We have also created a German cover letter sample in English for you to understand what your finished document should look like.

To save you loads of time, you can download our German cover letter template . Simply go to ‘file’ and select ‘ make a copy ‘. You can then edit it to your needs.

How to write a cover letter in Germany?

We will walk you step-by-step through the areas you should include in a German cover letter. You will also learn about what the content of the cover letter should convey. 

German cover letter formal format

As mentioned before, the German cover letter is a very formal letter that should follow the following format for it to look familiar to the German eye:

• Maximum one page and don’t fill it up completely. Leave enough white space when glancing over it.
• Put your full address, including email (ideally including your name) and phone number, in the top right corner.
• Put the company’s full address on the left with one paragraph below your address. Include the name of the contact person in the second line.
• Place the date of your application right-aligned underneath the addresses.

As you might know already, Germany has tons of rules, regulations, and guidelines. Naturally, there is also a guideline for professional letter writing and correspondence, the so-called  DIN 5008 norm . It states the following margins on a DIN A4 (standard German letter paper format):

Left margin: 2,5 cm Right margin: 2,0 cm Top margin: 4,5 cm Bottom margin: 2,5 cm

Please take this information with a grain of salt. Not following this layout does not mean that any German manager or recruiter will ignore your cover letter; however, the German eye is trained and used to reading this format. Anything appearing too much out of the ordinary might get noticed negatively. Again, you can shine with your cover letter’s content, but don’t try to stand out with the format unintentionally.

1. Subject Line

The subject line in a German cover letter needs to stand out. It needs to convey with one look what position you are applying for, and you should bold it. 

2. Salutation

The salutation is extremely important – the more personalized, the better. Reflect your understanding of the company’s culture by using the first name or last name; however it is appropriate. If you can’t find enough information or are unsure, always refer to the last name. If you can’t find the relevant person’s name, don’t be shy and pick up the phone to find out more. This shows initiative and determination.

When it comes to the cover letter’s main body, you should try to stick to four paragraphs. Remember to point out what value you will bring to the company, not what you can get from the company. Your cover letter’s content needs to reflect the expectations and requirements mentioned in the job ad. So make sure to connect the dots and position yourself ahead of other candidates.

Introduction (3 – 4 lines)

The introduction should answer why you are applying for the position and how you became aware of it (through a friend, an employee at the company, a job portal, etc.). Be confident in your word choice. Don’t use insecure words such as ‘I think I would be a good fit’ but rather ‘I am confident that I will contribute to …’.

Second paragraph (5 – 6 lines)

Now it is time to shine with your skills, experience, and qualifications. Never just list things, but choose the relevant achievements and prove them with results. Don’t only refer to achievements in your work life, but if relevant, also mention efforts with private projects. This will show your personality, drive, and willingness to learn and grow beyond what you get paid for. It is absolutely ok to also write in bullet list style in this part, as long as you don’t just list things.

Third paragraph (5 – 6 lines)

After you have showcased yourself, it is time to translate how these experiences and skills will contribute to the role and company. Convey that you have taken the time to research the company by referring to the company culture, possible awards the company has won, or projects that inspire and motivate you. Be authentic and confident.

Closure (3 – 4 lines)

To close your cover letter:

• Reemphasize your eagerness to join the company in the relevant position.
• Describe your future goals and the value you can bring to the company.
• State when you will be available to start work.
• Emphasize that you’d be happy to answer any questions via phone or in a personal interview . 
• Only mention salary expectations if they are asked for in the job ad.
• Be sure to sign the cover letter with your name. 

4. Attachments

Add the word ‘Enclosure’ ( Anlage ) underneath your signature. List all the additional documents you will hand in with your application, like your CV, certificates and diplomas, reference letter, etc.

Further cover letter and job applications tips

Don’t use the same CV and cover letter for different applications. As mentioned above, you must individualize your application to each company’s needs and requirements.

If you send your application directly by email, you have two options. You can either make the email body your cover letter. In this case, remove the address and date part from the email and place the subject line in the email’s actual subject. The body of the email remains a formal letter, though.

Or you can attach the cover letter to the email and briefly point out your application to the specific position in the body of the email, referring to the attachments. 

Ensure that any attachment always has the pdf format, regardless of whether you send it by email or upload it to an online application system. Also, pay attention to the naming of the attachments and keep it clear and professional.

Your job application, namely your resume and cover letter, should answer the recruiter’s main three questions:

• Can you do the job? (Skills)
• Will you do the job? (Motivation)
• Will you fit in with the company culture? (Personality)

Be sure to evaluate your documents based on these questions before you hand them in. The goal of your CV and cover letter is to get an invitation for a job interview .

Job Interview In Germany [How-To + Tips In English]

We hope that you now have a better understanding of how a German cover letter looks and feels like. But never forget to adapt your cover letter and application to the style of the company you are applying for. There is a big difference in culture between a young international StartUp and a big traditional German enterprise. 

Download the Cover Letter Template

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About the Author

Yvonne Koppen is a researcher and writer at Simple Germany, focusing on demystifying German bureaucracy for international skilled workers.

She has lived and worked abroad, which helps her understand how difficult a move to a new country can be. Beyond her professional pursuits, Yvonne loves to plan and go on road trips, puzzle, and do a triathlon here and there.

She is committed to creating accessible, empowering content through her writing and YouTube videos. Yvonne's passion for continuous learning and her ability to simplify complex topics make her an invaluable resource for expats seeking to navigate their new life in Germany.

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• Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa: Types, Format & Samples

Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa: Types, Format Samples & More

10 min read

Updated On Jan 22, 2024

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What is a Schengen Visa Cover Letter?

What needs to be included in cover letter schengen visa, cover letter format for schengen visa, samples of cover letter for schengen visa, state wise schengen visa cover letter requirements, documents to support schengen cover letter, where to submit your cover letter for schengen visa application, common mistakes in schengen visa cover letters.

Unlock the gateway to 27 vibrant European destinations with a Schengen visa! Whether you're an immigrant or a traveler this visa opens doors to incredible opportunities.

Navigate the application process effortlessly by mastering the art of crafting a compelling cover letter Schengen visa. Explore the essentials in our blog for a seamless visa experience!

The Cover Letter, also known as the introduction letter for a Schengen Visa is a crucial component of your application, serving as a communication tool with the visa officers.

Addressed to the Embassy or Consulate of the specific country you plan to visit, it outlines your reasons for travel and aims to persuade the consular staff of your suitability for the visa.

Even if applying through a visa application center like VFS Global, ensure your Cover Letter is directed to the relevant Embassy or Consulate.

In your Schengen Visa application cover letter, be sure to incorporate the following details regarding your trip:

• Clearly articulate the purpose motivating your visit to a Schengen country.
• Specify the exact dates for your intended entry and departure.
• Outline a well-structured itinerary detailing your planned activities throughout the Schengen area.
• Indicate your accommodation arrangements upon entering the Schengen region.
• List all the countries included in your travel plans.
• Provide information about your current employment status.
• If any mandatory documents are missing from your submission, explain their absence concisely

Drafting a cover letter is integral to the Schengen visa application process. This letter should succinctly outline your travel plans, the purpose of your visit, and your financial support strategy. Below is a brief Schengen visa cover letter template or format for your guidance

• Start with a formal salutation.
• Provide your name, address, contact details, and nationality.
• Clearly state your intention to apply for a Schengen visa.
• Introduce yourself briefly, mentioning your nationality and current residence.
• Specify the purpose of your visit (tourism, business, family visit, etc.).
• Mention the planned dates of your stay in the Schengen area.
• Outline your travel plans, including the countries you plan to visit and the duration of your stay in each.
• Explain your financial plan for supporting yourself during the visit.
• Confirm personal funding and attach supporting financial documents.
• List the attached documents supporting your application, such as flight itinerary, hotel reservations, travel insurance, etc.
• Express gratitude and formally request the approval of your Schengen visa application.
• Offer cooperation and assure compliance with regulations.
• End the letter with a formal closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Kind regards."

Let us first examine the supplied generic Schengen visa cover letter sample to acquaint yourself with the correct writing tone, format, structure, and other essential elements.

Business Schengen Visa Cover Letter Sample

When applying for a Schengen Business Visa, the responsibility of composing the Cover Letter lies with your employer. The letter must be crafted on the official letterhead of the company.

Sample Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Tourist

The Cover Letter for a Schengen Tourist Visa typically includes details about your travel plans, purpose of visit, and financial ability. It serves as a concise introduction to support your visa application.

Sample Cover Letter for Schengen Medical Treatment Visa

For a Schengen Medical Treatment Visa, your doctor must prepare the Cover Letter, including

• Detailed Diagnosis: Specify the medical condition requiring treatment in a Schengen country.
• Medical History: Provide a concise medical history for context.
• Treatment Details: Clearly state the nature and expected duration of the proposed treatment.

This letter is vital for the visa application, offering insights into the medical necessity and treatment plan.

Now that you are familiarised with the Sample cover letters for Schengen Visa, before crafting your cover letter, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements of the Schengen country you plan to visit. Here are the cover letter guidelines for key Schengen member states:

• Cover Letter for Visa Application Italy
• Highlight your ties to your home country, such as family, employment, and studies.
• Clearly state the purpose of your visit, outlining planned activities and dates.
• Provide proof of funds to cover your travel expenses.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Austria
• Specify the purpose of your visit, detailing the places and activities you'll engage in.
• If applying for a multiple-entry visa, provide a valid reason.
• Assure your return to your home country after the visa period.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application France
• Present a clear itinerary with destinations, travel dates, and the purpose of your visit.
• Indicate whether you have travel insurance for unforeseen medical expenses.
• Align your visit with academic, professional, or personal goals.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Germany
• In the introduction, concisely explain the purpose of your travel (tourism, family visits, or business).
• Provide evidence of funds to cover expenses like food, accommodation, and transportation.
• List all intended destinations you plan to visit.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Finland
• Detail arrangements for accommodation, food, and travel.
• Describe your planned activities, trips, events, meetings during your stay.
• Specify if you are seeking a multiple-entry visa and provide reasons.
• Cover Letter for Visa Application Spain
• Affirm that you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay.
• Provide a comprehensive overview of your travel plans.
• Include details about your accommodation arrangements, such as hotel reservations.

When applying for a Schengen Visa, ensure you submit the following documents alongside your Cover Letter:

• Completed Schengen Visa Application Letter/Form
• Valid passport with at least six months of validity
• Passport-size photos adhering to Schengen visa photo guidelines
• Flight itinerary or reservations
• Schengen Visa Travel Health Insurance
• Proof of accommodation within a Schengen country
• No Objection Certificate from your employer/school
• Letter of Invitation from a relative or company in the destination country, as per the purpose of travel
• Proof of paid Schengen Visa fees
• Bank Statements covering the last six months

To submit your Schengen Visa cover letter, consider the following options based on your situation and location:

• The Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country you intend to visit.
• The Embassy/Consulate of another Schengen country, if the destination lacks diplomatic representation in your area.
• A designated visa application agency, outsourced by the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country you plan to visit.
• You can even say you can submit and we can help you prepare at a regulated immigration consultant like getgis

Remember, if you're visiting multiple countries, apply at the Embassy/Consulate of the first country on your itinerary.

When crafting a Schengen Visa cover letter, it is crucial to be mindful and avoid pitfalls or errors. These include:

• Illogical Explanations

Provide logical reasons for your trip and intentions to return home. Be specific and avoid vague statements.

• Repetition of Document Information

Your cover letter should reveal unique details not found in other documents. Tell a story that complements, not duplicates, your reservations.

• Spelling and Grammar Errors

While minor mistakes are acceptable, excessive errors may convey a lack of respect for the application process. Pay attention to spelling, punctuation, and layout.

• Disorganized Document List

Present a well-organized list of documents in order of priority. Start with mandatory items, followed by those relevant to your trip and personal situation.

• Misalignment with Supporting Documents

Ensure that the details and reasons mentioned in your cover letter align with the information in other submitted documents. Any contradiction may lead to rejection.

Explore European Beauty and Opportunities: Cover Letter for a Schengen Visa

We hope the blog on the Schengen visa cover letter has addressed your uncertainties and inquiries, boosting your confidence in the application process. If you have additional questions or topics you'd like us to cover, feel free to reach out to GetGIS immigration experts.

Schedule a Free Consultation Now

Quick Reads:

• How Can I Avoid Schengen Visa Rejection? (Expert Tips)
• A Comprehensive Guide to Germany Visa Requirements in 2023-24
• Cost of Studying in Germany: All You Need to Know
• Complete Guide on Sweden Visa Types & Requirements
• Understanding The Austria Tourist Visa Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a cover letter required for a Schengen visa?

Why are Schengen visas rejected?

Is a cover letter necessary in Europe?

How to create an effective cover letter?

How to avoid Schengen visa refusal?

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Sr. Content Marketing Specialist

Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu has been working as Content Marketing Specialist with GetGIS since 2022 and has been extensively working to help candidates’ career transitions. Her experience spans across multiple industries in the fields of Sales and Marketing. Her core competencies include communication and research, which enable her to create and deliver in-depth guides as a Subject Matter Expert

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Build Cover Letter For Germany Schengen Visa [With AI]

by Lohith Kumar | Feb 5, 2024 | cover letter | 0 comments

Are you hoping to travel to Germany for your vacation? You’ll probably need to apply for a Schengen visa for Germany . For your visa application, you must also provide a cover letter, often known as a personal cover letter or a visa letter.

Most likely, you’ve come to this site in search of a cover letter for a Schengen visa to Germany.

How to get a cover letter?

If you want to get a cover letter for Schengen visa which is properly structured and used by over 50,000 customers, then you can make one using FlightGen App. All you need to do is answer questions related to your Schengen visa & your cover letter will be created for you in perfect format.

IMPORTANT: You can get any single document at very affordable price, which starts from $3 and another offer is, get all types of visa documents unlimited for unlimited users from 1 account, for which price or subscription starts from $10/month.  FlightGen  offers multiple visa documents, including cover letters, travel itineraries, flight itineraries, invitation letters, leave letters, and hotel bookings. Avail this offer as soon as possible!

FlightGen creates a hybrid cover letter which includes both the personal cover letter as well as the travel itinerary which otherwise, would have been another separate document. In fact, this the exact format that we use for all our visa customers.

What Is the Purpose of a Covering Letter When Applying for a German Schengen Visa?

A cover letter, also known as a visa letter, is a letter sent to the German consulate that explains why you are visiting Germany. It should include information such as your intended stay time, financial documentation, and any other documents required. The cover letter should make it apparent to the Visa Officer why they should grant your Germany visa.

Because you are applying for a Germany Schengen Visa , your cover letter must include information about all of the Schengen countries you will be visiting on your trip, as well as a day-by-day itinerary for your whole stay in the Schengen region.

Because the content of a cover letter differs based on the visa application, it must be personalised. It is not feasible to use someone else’s cover letter for your visa application without making significant changes to fit your needs.

So we advise that you review all of the samples (which we have included in subsequent parts) and write your cover letter on a blank page (or use the FlightGen App to build one for you!!).

If you have an Indian passport, please see our Cover letter for Indian passport holders.

Your covering letter for a Schengen visa is your first point of contact with the Embassy.

Your cover letter will be placed on top of all your visa documents. This is due to the fact that it is the initial document the visa consulate examines in order to fully understand your application and choose whether or not they must approve your visa. This is also where you may speak with the visa officer personally.

You may take advantage of this by being precise and clear about your visa application without being too personal. A professional visa consulate will be able to quickly determine whether to reject or grant your visa based on the information in your cover letter.

For instance, even if your cover letter (travel itinerary part) indicates that you would be spending more time in France, you have filed for your visa at the German embassy. Your application for a visa will then be refused, and you will be given the option of modifying it by staying longer in Germany or applying for a visa through the French consulate.

What Should Be Included In A Cover Letter When Applying For A Schengen Visa?

For a Schengen visa cover letter to be effective, the following details should be included in the below order:

1.The address of Your local German Schengen consulate, which is simple to find online 2.Clearly state the type of visa requested in the subject line 3.The trip start/end dates showing more days in Germany 4.Your trip’s objective, which aids the visa officer in comprehending the applicant’s intentions 5.Information about the trip’s financial supporter. This might apply to the candidate, their spouse, a guest, or a business. 6.The letter may also provide documentation of the accommodations. 7.Germany daily travel itinerary ,  Schengen business or tourist visa . Not required for sports, medical, or visiting visas. 8.To assess the applicant’s financial soundness, the visa officer will need to know facts about their job and company history. 9.A list of the supporting documents submitted along with the application for a German visa, which enables the visa officer to evaluate all the necessary information. 10.The applicant’s contact details in case more clarification is needed. Overall, providing these crucial pieces of information in your cover letter can assist enhance the applicant’s visa application and boost their chances of being given a visa.

The Synonyms Of Cover Letter

Cover letter has many names and it is important not to be confused between them. Often used synonyms for cover letter is:

• Personal cover letter
• Covering letter
• Letter of introduction
• visa letter to the embassy
• visa Letter
• Schengen visa covering letter
• Letter to the immigration for visa approval.
• Letter of visa approval.
• introductory letter for visa application
• Purpose of travel letter
• letter to the embassy for visa request
• cover letter for visa application

All these words mean the same and should not be confused with one another.

How Should I Write My Cover Letter For A Schengen Visa To Germany?

Use FlightGen to quickly and simply generate a polished cover letter for your visa application by following these easy steps:

1. View the FlightGen tutorial, which is quite useful. 2. Download the smart app from the Google Play Store (for Android) or the App Store for iOS. 3. Respond to the Letter Wizard’s simple questions. 4.After reviewing your letter, for just $4.99, you may obtain the PDF.

Is a cover letter necessary when applying for Germany Schengen visa? 

Yes. Even though the German visa regulations do not specify that a cover letter is necessary, you will be obliged to bring one with you to the visa facilitation office.

Sample Cover Letters For Germany Schengen Visa (Based On Purpose Of Travel)

Your cover letter’s format for Germany The type of Schengen visa you require depends on the reason for your trip; we assume you are aware of your visa status.

Sample Cover Letter For The Application Of A Tourist Visa To Germany

If the purpose of your trip to Germany is tourism, you can use the sample cover letter for a tourist visa provided below. You must have at least a tentative travel schedule backed up with proof of accommodations, such as hotel or hostel reservations.

You can download the pdf format of the above sample below,  this was generated using our FlightGen App.

Sample Cover Letter For Germany Business Visa Application

If you are submitting an application for a business Germany Schengen visa , your documents and travel purpose will be different. Use the following cover letter style and customise it to match your qualifications.

Cover Letter Sample For A Visitor Visa Application

If you are applying for a German tourist visa , you do not need to provide your trip itinerary in the cover letter. To write your own visa letter for a visiting visa application, see the example provided below.

Sample Cover Letter For A Medical Visa Application

If you have a medical issue and wish to receive treatment in Germany, you can use the sample cover letter for Germany Medical visa application provided below.

Cover Letter Sample For A German Spouse Visa Application

Does your partner reside in Germany? If you wish to join them, you must obtain a Germany Schengen Spouse visa, also known as a Spousal visa. The cover letter for this visa is rather straightforward, as you do not need to provide a day-by-day travel itinerary. Additionally, your spouse must hold either a German passport or a residence permit for Germany.

You can change the sample cover letter provided below to suit your needs, or you can produce a cover letter for Spouse visa with the FlightGen App.

Sample For A German Work Visa

Before working in Germany, you must get a German work visa, which allows you to work across the Schengen area, in addition to in Germany. Following is a sample cover letter for a Schengen work visa for Germany.

Sample For A German student Visa

Germany is one of the greatest places to study, especially engineering, for which it is recognised. In addition, Europe is much less expensive than the United States and Australia for comparable-quality higher education. To go to Germany as a student, you must get a German student visa.

The following is the format for the cover letter for the Germany Student Schengen visa.

Sample For A German Transit Visa

Transiting through one of Germany’s busiest airports, such as Frankfurt, requires a particular sort of short-stay visa known as a Schengen Transit visa. The example provided below demonstrates how to write a visa letter for a German Schengen Transit visa.

What Additional Documents Must Be Provided To Apply For A German Schengen Visa?

• Original passport with at least two blank pages and a minimum validity of six months
• The application for a Schengen visa must be properly completed and signed.
• Two current, colour, passport-size photos that adhere to Schengen requirements
• Personal statement and detailed vacation itinerary (Can be created using FlightGen App)
• Original, updated, and bank-attested bank statements for the most recent three months (Online not accepted without bank seal on it.)
• Income Tax Returns for the previous three years (Form 16)
• A flight itinerary (for use in applying for visas, use the FlightGen app. For smartphones running Android and iOS)
• Reservations at hotels
• Travel Protection (minimum coverage of EUR 30000) Travel insurance through HDFC Ergo starting at 300 INR. Use VisitorsCoverage for other nations.

Frequently Asked Questions?

Where should i send my cover letter to request a schengen visa for germany.

You must bring your application materials, including your cover letter, to the visa appointment. Typically, this is done at the German consulate or a centre that streamlines the issuing of visas, such VFS or BLSS.

How significant is a cover letter when applying for a German visa?

A cover letter is necessary for all visa applications, but is especially important for Schengen visas.

It accomplishes two things. It makes it easier for the visa officer to accept or (deny!) your visa application since it gives the official more information about your trip intentions.

The information in your documents will first be compared to what is stated in your cover letter. If so, getting your visa approved will be simple.

As a visa applicant, you can only contact with the visa officer here. So here is your time to argue for the approval of your visa.

A well-written cover letter may make or break your application for a Germany visa .

What does a cover letter for a visa application contain?

Introduction letters are also known as personal cover letters at times (also known as visa letters).

Its purpose is to provide information about your journey to visa authorities. They will next compare it to your supporting papers in cross-referencing.

Your application for a visa approval will be completed shortly if all information is verified.

How should I begin my letter while applying for a German visa?

Get your introduction letter as soon as possible by installing the FlightGen App and letting the AI do the job for you. However, if you wish to write one on your own, you may do so by drawing inspiration from the sample below.

The FlightGen App will automatically write your cover letter for you .

What should the main parts of my cover letter for a German visa application be?

Your trip itinerary, dates, and day-by-day itinerary should all be mentioned in your cover letter, along with any paperwork you’ve filed to have your German Schengen visa approved.

Which document must I attach to my cover letter when applying for a visa?

You must include every document you plan to submit to have your visa approved. Please describe any further papers you may have.

I’m preparing a cover letter for a visa application; is it crucial that I stick to the same font size and style? No. But it’s better to choose a simple, straightforward typeface than one that looks fancy. Use just up to two lines, properly formatted with the appropriate line height. This ought to make it simple for the visa officer to read your letter of invitation.

Which cover letter works best for a visa application?

The greatest cover letter gives the German officer all the information they need to know about your trip in an easy-to-understand style. In this aspect, FlightGen App generates the best cover letters.

What components should a cover letter for a visa application contain?

The following information should be included in your cover letter: the itinerary, dates, and times of travel. Please also add any supporting documentation for German Schengen visa clearance.

Include your contact information in case the consulate needs to get in touch with you.

What typical blunders should I steer clear of while composing a cover letter for a German visa application?

The most crucial thing to keep in mind while composing a cover letter is to avoid giving partial truths or publishing made-up or incorrect information.

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How to Draft a Perfect German Cover Letter [Format, Guide]

In Germany, the employment market is highly competitive. Many qualified and skilled individuals are looking for jobs in Germany, so it's critical to make an excellent first impression with your cover letter.

A well-written cover letter can differentiate between securing job interviews and being overlooked when submitting a job or visa application. A great cover letter demonstrates that you are serious about the position and have what it takes. 

Read on for a guide on   how to write the ideal German cover letter and an example format , plus some pointers and shortcuts to ensure that your cover letter is flawless.

What is a German Cover Letter?

You may submit a one-page cover letter ( Anschreiben ) from Germany when   applying for a job   or an internship. The cover letter introduces you to the potential employer and explains why you are the ideal applicant.

The German cover letter should be formal and polite. The tone should be positive and professional.

Tip:   You may submit your resume ( Lebenslauf ) and cover letter in English or German when applying for a   position . If the employment opening is in German, it is advisable to write your cover letter in German.

German Cover Letter Format

It is critical to use the correct format for your cover letter when applying in Germany. This implies that you should include your   contact information   (name, address, phone number, email) and the date at the top of the page. The letter should be addressed to the person in charge of hiring at the firm (if you do not have a name, you can use something more general, such as " Dear Hiring Manager ").

It is essential to   keep it professional and easy to read   regarding font style and size for your German cover letter. Times New Roman or Arial font in size 12 should be sufficient.

Begin your letter with a   brief introduction   and explain why you are interested in the position. Then, go into detail about your qualifications and accomplishments that make you the perfect candidate for the job. Be sure to   emphasize any skills or experience   relevant to the position.

In the second section,   underline the skills and accomplishments   that make you the perfect candidate. Be sure to emphasize any skills or work experience relevant to the position. Finally, in the third part,   thank the company for their time and consideration . You may also include a statement of availability for an interview or mention that you will be in touch soon.

Close the letter with a professional sign-off (" Sincerely," "Best regards ," etc.), followed by your full name and signature.

Tip:   If you've   studied German , say so in your cover letter. This will demonstrate to the employer that you're serious about the position and have taken the time to learn more about their culture and country.

What not to include in a German Cover Letter

When writing your German cover letter, there are a few things that you should avoid doing.

• Do not repeat information   from your resume or CV verbatim.
• Personal information   such as your age, marital status, or the number of children should not be included. This data is irrelevant to the employer and may lead to your being discriminated against.
• Do not use   informal language or contractions . The phrases "I'd want to," or "I'll be" are examples of informal language.
• Avoid a generic cover letter . Make sure that your cover letter is tailored to the position you're applying for. This will demonstrate to the employer that you are genuinely interested in working for them.
• Do not include a   photograph   of yourself.
• Do not use humor   or try to be witty in your cover letter. This is a formal business correspondence; therefore, keep it serious unless stated otherwise.
• Do not make any   negative comments   about your current or previous employers.
• Do not reveal your salary expectations or demands   during the interview. This may be discussed at length during the hiring process.

Keep the following in mind while drafting a German Cover Letter

A German cover letter should be concise and direct, as stated in the job description.

There's no need to include details about your interests or hobbies. The emphasis should be on your abilities and qualifications rather than your personality.

Employers may not be familiar with overly formal or technical language, so avoid it. Stick to simple, straightforward speech that anyone can comprehend.

Finally, double-check it for spelling and grammatical errors before submitting your cover letter.

German Cover Letter Template Ideas

Finding the ideal German cover letter template may be a challenging task.

The internet is your best friend for locating the perfect German cover letter template. Several excellent, free websites provide templates for various letters, including German cover letters.

Some of our favorites include:

Novoresume   is a website that provides free templates for various letters, including German Cover Letters. The website offers several templates for different types of letters and varying levels of experience.

Resume.io  is another website that has compiled the best German cover letter examples and templates to help you land your dream job.

Zety  is a website that provides cover letter templates for various professions. The website offers both free and paid templates.

Cover letters can be tricky, but following a specific format can make the time to research much more accessible and help you get your dream job. Remember to personalize your letter for each job application and highlight relevant qualifications and experience.

Need help with your German CV?

Don't worry! Check out our German CV guide below to know everything you need to create an outstanding German CV

Colleges in Germany [Complete Guide]

German Political System

Letter of Motivation [Complete Guide]

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Cover letter template (German freelance visa)

This is the cover letter I submitted when I applied for a German freelance visa in 2018. It’s based on this cover letter .

How to apply for a freelance visa

Download the template

How To Write A German Cover Letter – A Step By Step Guide

by Cheryl Howard | Apr 7, 2024 | Berlin Guides , Job Applications , Working In Berlin | 0 comments

HOW TO WRITE A GERMAN COVER LETTER – A STEP BY STEP GUIDE

Have you been l ooking for a job in Germany, applying for several positions, and finding that you’re not getting any responses? It happens to the best of us, even to those who work in   highly demanded professions   like software developers, marketing professionals, economists, and more.

Searching for a job , especially one right for you, is a daunting task that takes   a lot   of work, patience, and perseverance. When you add looking for a job in a foreign country like Germany into the mix, it’s even more challenging. You’re probably unfamiliar with the country’s norms when creating job applications and could unknowingly be making mistakes. What’s more, a lot of the information about how to write a German cover letter is often outdated and/or created by people with zero experience in recruiting.

The most significant part of getting noticed by German employers is your ability to put together a solid job application, which usually includes a well-written and designed cover letter and CV that tells a story about you and why you’re uniquely qualified for that position.

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 WRITE A GERMAN COVER LETTER LIKE A SEASONED PRO

📖 📖 📖 Bookmark THIS extensive guide on how to write a German cover letter and use it as a frame of reference when applying for jobs in Germany.

1) Are Cover Letters Really Needed?

As you’re searching for a job in Berlin, or anywhere in Germany for that matter, have you asked yourself these questions:

1) Do I need to write a German cover letter when I’m applying for jobs?

2) Are cover letters relevant when my CV already tells my story?

3) Does anyone even bother to read cover letters?

Let me tell you a story:

I worked for one company when a member of senior management asked, “Why do people write cover letters? I   never   read them. I only want to see their CV, and I’ll get in touch if it’s interesting. I’m way too busy to read both cover letters and CVs.”

A very fair point and I agree with him 100%. His pain was also my pain, as I was reviewing several job applications each day and looking at people we could potentially add to our team. It was time-consuming and tedious, especially when we wanted to ensure whoever applied was given a fair shot.

It’s true that not every recruiter or hiring manager will read it (like that manager), and some companies (like where I currently work) even ask candidates   not   to submit cover letters. However, many companies still expect to see one.

So do you need a German cover letter? Yes, most definitely. Even though they feel like a waste of time (and sometimes really are), cover letters are essential when applying for jobs in Berlin or elsewhere in Deutschland.

2) Why Should I Write A German Cover Letter?

There are a number of good arguments about why you should take the time to write up a cover letter for your job applications:

1) There’s a slight chance that not submitting a cover letter will result in immediate rejection. A recruiter or hiring manager may think that if you didn’t put in the effort to make a cover letter, why should they even consider you for the job? While this is silly, don’t take a chance and make it a habit always to include a cover letter.

​2) Some (not all) HR software scans submitted documents looking for specific keywords. A cover letter that mentions certain keywords from the job description could help you bubble to the top of the candidate pool, where you’re more likely to get noticed before other candidates.

3) Called a motivation letter in Germany ( Motivationsschreiben ), a cover letter is your chance to shine. It’s when you can tell the company why you want to work for them, explain how uniquely qualified you are for that role, and really make your personality come through.

​Think of it like this – when you go to the theatre to watch a movie, you’ll see trailers for upcoming flicks. They only last one or two minutes, but if the trailer is really good, they’ve hooked you, and eventually, you’re going to go out and watch that movie.

Your cover letter is exactly like that movie trailer. It’s a preview of your CV and you as a person. A cover letter’s main call to action is to make the person reading it want to know more. They’ll spend time reviewing your CV and, hopefully, contact you for that first interview.

4) A cover letter shows diligence and interest from your side. Employers are keen to know why you want to work for them, learn why you’re the person they should hire, and if you’re passionate about your chosen field.

If a cover letter is done well, in the sense that it’s framed as a well-written and compelling narrative, it’ll motivate the employer to contact you for an interview. Most people do really read them, so it’s worth spending time writing one that makes you stand out from other applicants.

3) How Do I Structure A German Cover Letter?

Following a fixed structure and method that you can repeat for each new job application makes writing a cover letter way easier.

Always include these vital elements in a cover letter:

1)   Salutation   – Address your cover letter to that person using formal German greetings such as “Dear Herr Müller” or “Dear Frau Schmidt.” If no contact is listed or you’re unsure about which greeting to use (you don’t ever want to address someone as Herr when they’re a Frau, for example), use a generic greeting such as “Dear hiring manager” or “To whom it may concern.” If you read other online texts saying that you  always  have to specify a specific contact name, this is very untrue. More and more German companies are refraining from adding contact names to job descriptions to avoid being spammed by applicants. So don’t stress out on this point at all, as using a generic greeting is not only expected but completely acceptable.

2) Intro   – This section should be one paragraph maximum. Personalize your cover letter by telling the company  why you want to work there.  Be specific and use supporting examples gleaned from company research. Doing so will impress the company and show you did your homework before applying. Remember that this section is not about you but about them as an organization. Avoid self-serving statements when telling them why you want to work there. For example, don’t say you want to work there because the office is down the street from your flat or you heard they pay exceptionally high salaries. Instead, say you’re impressed with the company culture, that you identify with their sustainability mission, and that you want to be part of building out the next stage of their growth.

​ 3) About You   – This section can be one or two paragraphs long and is the “meat” of the cover letter and where you need to sell yourself. Pull points from the job description to tell your potential employer   why you’re uniquely qualified for the position . Build on those points by using personal examples that draw from your experience, education, and more. Ensure your examples are specific, build on one another in a complementing fashion, and tell an exciting story. Say that the role calls for someone with leadership experience. You can tell them that you have 10 years of experience managing distributed teams of varying sizes. You can further say that you excel at creating and maintaining high-performing teams with a track record of meeting deadlines. And finish by telling them how you launched a project that helped the company make millions of euros. Whatever you do, don’t just list a bunch of keywords, repeat the job description itself, or write a novel.

4) Closin g   – Reiterate your excitement about the company and the open position. Let them know you want to learn more and would welcome a chance for an interview. Be sure to tell them about your availability and how to best get in touch.

A few more tips about how to structure a German cover letter:

1) If you’re sending the cover letter by email or uploading it to an applicant tracking system, you don’t need to include the address information of yourself or the company. For that matter, a signature isn’t required either. These things are entirely unnecessary and irrelevant as we no longer live in the Stone Age.

2) If anyone prints or references your cover letter for an interview, you can leave the date on it so they know when you applied for the role.

Strive to ensure the narrative in the letter flows well and tells a unique story about you and why they should hire you over anyone else out there.

4) Should I Customize My Cover Letter For Job Applications ?

Yes, we know. It’s   a lot   of work to create a new cover letter every time you apply for a job, but sending the same cover letter out won’t do anymore. You need to show employers you took time to research their company, tell them why you want to work there, and why they should hire you.

This is why personalizing the cover letter is really important. They need to see the real you and that you were thoughtful in your job application. Anything less makes it look like you’re not really interested in the role and could see your job application land in the recruiter’s NO pile.

Suppose a cover letter is simply a regurgitation of the job description or a generic copy-and-paste text you’ve used for every job application. The recruiter or hiring manager will easily be able to spot this and may make the company less likely to contact you. Again, don’t take a chance.

Read about how to customize cover letters when you’re submitting unsolicited job applications . 

5) How Do I Use Company Research In My Cover Letter?

Before writing a cover letter, we recommend that you complete in-depth research on the company to which you’re applying. The research will help you a lot, especially as it’ll give you the information you can embed in your cover letter and use later to ask questions during an interview.

You need to tell the employer why you like their company and show you did your research, by looking at   Glassdoor reviews , browsing through their website, reading their press releases, etc.

Read our detailed guide about how to   research a German company .

6) How Long Should A German Cover Letter Be?

Keep the cover letter to a single page and not more than 3 – 4 paragraphs. Be succinct (i.e., avoid long wordy sentences or overuse of adjectives) and   summarize, summarize, summarize .

Pick key points from your CV and/or job description but don’t repeat things verbatim.

7) Should I Use An Automatic Text Generator or AI?

I’ve played around with ChatGPT and boy, is it good. Like really really good!

Call me old school, but in general, I’d still suggest writing your own cover letter without the help of predictive text generators or AI.

I say this for two reasons:

1) Many of these generators like Speedwrite yield text that doesn’t make much sense at all. It often reads as if it were written by a robot and spits out alternative text that says exactly the same thing but in a slightly different way.

2) Even worse, it won’t sound like you. A cover letter should be an honest and accurate reflection of who you are and how you communicate. I cannot stress that enough, especially if you’re being hired into a role where communication skills are key.

What you could do is use AI to write that very first draft cover letter. Then you could use that text as a baseline and improve it using your own words. Try out this beta AI from Imagine to get started! 

Alternatively, you can write a draft first and then use a tool like Grammarly to better what you’ve written.

We know this can be tough if you’re not writing in your native language. In these cases, make sure you get other people to proofread your cover letter or even hire a professional to help you out.

8) Should I Write My Cover Letter In German ?

Writing your cover letter in German may help you get noticed by HR software or LinkedIn search engine algorithms.

Be careful and use your best judgment here, though. It could backfire when they discover that your level of German doesn’t match the level of what’s in your cover letter.

Let me tell you another story:

A recruiter I used to work with told me that she’d found a dream candidate for a position that had been open for a long time. This person was applying from abroad and had submitted   both   their CV and cover letter in German.

The first interview was scheduled, and during the call, the recruiter was surprised to find that the candidate didn’t know any German at all. Turns out they’d paid someone to translate their documents.

Sadly, the candidate was rejected for their false claims of being fluent in German and wasting the recruiter’s time. And contrary to what many say, German fluency is absolutely essential for most available positions in the country. 

Of course, it could go the other way and the company may still hire you anyway because you’re such a good fit. But please, be honest upfront and if you decide to write your cover letter in German, indicate your language level (like B1 or C1) very prominently on your CV and in your cover letter. Then the decision will be left to the employer to contact you.

9) Can I Stretch The Truth Because Everyone Fibs A Bit?

Above all, be humble and honest about things, like your education, work experience, level of German, etc.

It’s easy to lie or exaggerate when you want a job, and we’ve all been told to “fake it until we make it,” and in many cases, it can work in your favor. But let’s be real here, this behavior is unprofessional, not to mention unethical.

Not long ago, I was shocked to read the LinkedIn profile of a former colleague who claimed to have led a high-profile project for our company. That project wasn’t even started until after that person left. This person was blatantly lying and taking credit for other people’s work that she didn’t do.

Don’t be that person. 

False claims could come back to haunt you. For example, the Berlin community is small and people know each other. A potential employer may know someone at one of your former companies and informally reach out to them for information about you.

If they uncover any lies, it will likely cost you the job, even your reputation.

Of course, be confident in your accomplishments, and don’t undersell yourself. Just make sure you’re telling the truth.

10) How Do I Create A Well Designed Cover Letter? 

You could just type of bunch of text into a Google document and send it off. But how about making your cover letter look nice using websites like   Canva   or   Edit.org , where you can find beautiful and professional templates for free?

Other things to keep in mind:

1) Use a large and readable font that considers general accessibility guidelines. Sometimes people try to jam as much information as possible onto a cover letter and to make it fit a single page using ridiculously small font sizes. Trust me – no one wants to use a magnifying glass to read your cover letter.

Use this   guide from Indeed   which speaks to the right font and font size to use on CVs, which also applies to cover letters.

2) Don’t make your paragraphs too long and use sensible spacing to make your cover letter easier to read.

3) Your   German CV   should have a similar look and feel. This way, the cover letter, and CV will appear as one fluid job application package.

11) Do I   Really   Have To Follow These Rules?

No, of course not! Our guidelines are simply here to help you write a good cover letter that’s more likely to get you noticed by German employers.

There’s no reason not to get creative and have fun with your cover letter. This may also mean breaking some of the “rules” outlined here.

Be bold and dare to take unique approaches that challenge the status quo. Perhaps give them a link to a video you made telling them why you want to work there. Share a sample of what you can do for them by sharing some insight on how you’d approach your job. Invite them to check out your blog or social media.

The sky’s the limit. A unique cover letter will help you stand apart from other candidates.

12) How Can I Ensure My German Cover Letter Is Of High Quality?

Make sure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, get the company name and other details right, and if you can, have a second or third pair of eyes review your cover letter. This can be a friend, partner, or even, a paid professional. Proofreading is essential, as if you’ve been staring at the same documents for hours, it can be super easy to miss out on small mistakes you might’ve made.

This advice might sound really obvious and basic, but trust me, I’ve seen tons of job applications with errors on them. I must also confess that I once put the wrong company name in a cover letter and somehow still got several interviews with them. Miracles happen, folks! 🤣

Anyway, avoid sloppy mistakes if you can, and make sure your German cover letter is top-notch.

What do I recommend?   Join my   Facebook community   of more than 8,000 people and ask someone there for a   cover letter exchange . Another person can review your cover letter and give you feedback and you can do the same for them.

That’s a wrap! Follow these tips to write a really good German cover letter that’s going to land you a job in Germany.

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• Immigration

Sample Cover Letters for Schengen Visa Application

Applying for a Schengen visa involves various documents, one of which is the cover letter. This letter plays a crucial role as it presents your purpose for visiting, explains your itinerary, and communicates directly to the consulate. Here’s a detailed guide on how to craft a compelling cover letter for your Schengen visa application.

How to Write a Decent Cover Letter for Schengen Visa Application

Step 1: Start With Basic Formatting

Firstly, your cover letter needs to have a professional layout:

• Header : Include your contact information at the top right corner and the date. Below that, write the contact information of the embassy or consulate.
• Salutation : Always start with “Dear Sir/Madam,” or if you know the name of the consul, you can address them directly.

Step 2: Introduction

Begin your letter by stating your intent:

• Introduce yourself, mention your nationality, and briefly state your reason for applying for a Schengen visa.
• Specify the type of visa you are applying for (tourism, business, medical, etc.).

Step 3: State the Purpose of Your Visit

This part should detail why you want to visit the Schengen area:

• If it’s for tourism, highlight some attractions or events you plan to attend.
• For business, mention your business contacts and the essence of your visit.
• If it’s a medical visit, briefly state the medical reason without going into too much detail.

Step 4: Provide Your Travel Itinerary

Giving a clear itinerary offers the consulate clarity on your plans:

Also of Interest:

How to write an appeal letter for visa refusal 2 free samples, sample job offer letter for h-1b visa application.

• Include your arrival and departure dates.
• List the places you intend to visit, along with accommodation arrangements.
• For a multi-country visit, highlight the main destination and other countries on your itinerary.

Step 5: Explain Your Ties to Your Home Country

Consulates need to ensure that you will return to your home country after the visit:

• Mention your employment status, job title, employer details, and the length of your employment.
• If applicable, mention your family ties, property, or other significant commitments in your home country.

Step 6: Detail Your Financial Means

Prove that you can financially sustain yourself during your stay:

• State your annual income or provide evidence of savings.
• If someone else is sponsoring your trip, mention their name and your relationship with them and attach proof of sponsorship.

Step 7: Closing Statement

Reaffirm the purpose of your visit and express your hope for a positive response:

• Summarize the reasons why you should be granted a visa.
• Politely request for your application to be accepted, ensuring you sound polite and respectful.

Step 8: Attach Supporting Documents

List the documents you are attaching with your application:

• Passport copies, bank statements, travel insurance , flight itinerary, hotel bookings, invitation letters, etc., should be noted.

Step 9: Sign off Formally

Use a formal closing such as “Best regards” or “Sincerely,” followed by your full name. If you are sending a hard copy, make sure to sign above your typed name.

Additional Tips:

• Clarity and Conciseness : Keep your language clear and concise. Avoid overly complex sentences.
• Customization : Tailor your cover letter to reflect your specific situation. Avoid generic phrases that make your letter sound impersonal.
• Proofreading : Always check for grammatical errors or typos. A well-written letter makes a better impression.

Sample Cover Letter for Tourist Schengen Visa

Subject: Application for Schengen Visa for Tourism Purposes

Chennai, India March 24, 2023

Embassy of Spain 12, Prithviraj Road Chennai, India

Dear Consular Officer,

I, Priya Singh, a permanent resident of Chennai, India holding passport number P3456789, am writing to request a Schengen Visa to visit Spain for tourism purposes. My planned travel dates are from July 10, 2023, to July 25, 2023.

My visit’s primary purpose is to explore the rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty of Spain, visiting prominent locations like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville. I am particularly interested in exploring the Prado Museum, experiencing a flamenco dance show, and indulging in the local cuisine.

I am currently employed at Tech Innovations Pvt. Ltd., where I work as a Project Coordinator. I’ve arranged my travel and accommodation details, ensuring I have a structured travel itinerary during my stay. My return to India will follow the completion of my journey on July 25, 2023, as per the travel plan.

Attached herewith are the supporting documents including my employment verification , hotel bookings, flight tickets, travel insurance, and bank statements as proof of my financial sufficiency.

Thank you very much for considering my application. I am looking forward to a favorable response. Should you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Warm regards,

Priya Singh [Full address in India] [Contact Information]

Sample Cover Letter for Business Schengen Visa

Subject: Schengen Visa Application for Business Trip

Bangalore, India March 24, 2023

Embassy of Germany 45 MG Road Bangalore, India

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am Rajesh Kumar, writing on behalf of my employer, Future Enterprises Pvt. Ltd., based in Bangalore, India, to request a Business Schengen Visa for myself. My passport number is A98765432.

The purpose of my visit is to attend business meetings and workshops with our business partner, Green Tech Innovations, located in Frankfurt, Germany, scheduled from April 15, 2023, to April 22, 2023. These meetings are crucial for the upcoming joint venture that we are due to sign, which will significantly benefit both companies involved.

During my stay, I will be accommodated at Hilton City Hotel in Frankfurt, and all my expenses will be borne by Future Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. as per our corporate travel policy.

Enclosed are all pertinent documents, including my itinerary, invitation letter from Green Tech Innovations, company support letter, proof of financial means, hotel reservation, and round-trip flight bookings.

I kindly request a prompt processing of my visa application. Please contact me should you require more information.

Rajesh Kumar [Full address in India] [Contact Information]

Sample Cover Letter for Medical Treatment Schengen Visa

Subject: Application for Schengen Medical Treatment Visa

Mumbai, India March 24, 2023

Consulate of Italy 30, Altamount Road Mumbai – 400026

My name is Aarti Malhotra, and I am writing to apply for a Medical Treatment Visa for Italy. I am a legal resident of Mumbai, India, and hold passport number M1234567.

Based on medical advice, I need to undergo a specialized medical procedure at the Santa Maria Hospital in Rome, Italy. The treatment is scheduled from August 10, 2023, to August 30, 2023, and is necessary due to a condition that cannot be adequately treated in India.

Enclosed herewith are my medical reports, a letter from my doctor in India, and the formal invitation from Santa Maria Hospital. Also attached are my travel arrangements, accommodation confirmation in Rome, and proof of financial means to support my medical and living expenses during my stay.

I trust that you will find everything in order. I appreciate your prompt and favorable consideration of my visa application to enable me to receive the necessary medical treatment.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Best regards,

Aarti Malhotra [Full address in India] [Contact Information]

These cover letters provide a guideline on how to structure a Schengen visa application for tourism, business, and medical reasons respectively. Each letter is adjusted to reflect specific backstories and purposes as per visa type while retaining the professionalism and detail required.

Writing a detailed and clear cover letter can significantly influence the decision on your Schengen visa application. It’s your opportunity to connect with the consulate officials, make a good first impression, and provide a structured overview of your travel plans and intentions. Follow these steps meticulously, and you enhance your chances of visa approval, leading to an enjoyable trip to the Schengen area .

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How To Write Your Cover Letter in Germany (+ English Example!)

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Looking for a job in Germany and wondering how to write your cover letter? You are at the right place. In this article, you will learn how to write your cover letter in Germany, including the format, style, and structure. We also include some tips here on writing your cover letter in Germany. You can also download a free German cover letter example (in English).

Table of Contents

Introduction

7 seconds . This is how long it takes to form a  first impression . So, giving an excellent first impression in the interview is essential. But do you know that your first impression is not formed in the interview? It is formed in the first contact you make. You are right. The first contact is your job application.

That is why sending a good CV and cover letter in your job application is very important. This determines whether you have a chance to come to an interview, where you can make your first impression (physically).

What is a cover letter (Anschreiben)?

Your cover letter is the very first impression you give your potential employer. It is one of the deciding factors whether you get a job interview or not. If it catches the recruiter’s attention, he will want to learn more about you by inviting you to an interview.

So, your cover letter should highlight your skills and experience that fit a job’s specific requirements. You should use many examples and facts to convince the recruiter why you are uniquely qualified for the role. Tell the recruiter why you want to work for that company. 

The cover letter should be professional. The goal is to supplement your CV but not duplicate it. While your CV focuses on your skills and experiences, your cover letter should focus on your motivation and how you can apply those skills to the job.

Read also:  Want to Work in Germany? Tips from Industry Experts

Do you really need to write a cover letter in Germany?

You may not need a cover letter for your job application in many countries. How about in Germany? How important is it to have a cover letter?

In Germany, a cover letter was one of the most essential elements in a job application. However, its importance seems to reduce in recent years.

According to a survey,  59% of the recruiters in Germany accept job applications without cover letters. Many think that having a CV is already sufficient.

However, if you want to increase your chance of landing your dream job, it is still better to write a cover letter. Imagine if 59% of the recruiters in Germany do not require a cover letter. It means that the other 41% will.

Not having a cover letter reduces your chance of getting an interview invitation. You may even get an immediate rejection because of not submitting a cover letter.

Should you write your cover letter in English or German?

This is a tricky question. Unless specified in the job advertisement, it is better to submit your cover letter in German. However, if you do not speak any German, it may be better to submit your cover letter in English. 

Why? It is because you won’t want to give false hope to the recruiter that you speak German while you cannot.

I once went to an interview in Germany after submitting my CV and cover letter in English. Back then, I did not speak any German. When the interviewer saw me, he was shocked that I couldn’t speak German. The interview ended immediately after that, and I didn’t get the job.

So now, imagine you send all your application documents to the recruiter in perfect German. It is logical for the recruiter to assume that you speak some German. You will probably not get the job when you are not meeting his expectation, especially if he is looking for someone who can speak German.

If you do speak some German (even not perfect), you may want to submit your cover letter in German. In that case, make sure your cover letter has no spelling or grammatical mistakes. To be perfect, you can also use a   translation service  or a  cover letter writing service . 

On the other hand, if the job advertisement is written in English and you do not speak any German, try sending your cover letter in English. 

Even though insufficient German skills limit your opportunities, many international companies in Germany do have their hiring process in English. Here is how I  got my permanent full-time job in Germany without speaking German.

Sending your cover letter in Germany

Many big companies require you to submit your cover letter and other application documents via their online portal. In that case, send your application documents such as cover letter and CV in PDF format. 

Give a relevant name to each document. For example, use names such as “Your Full Name_CV” or “Your Full Name_Cover Letter”. This will make your documents look more professional. It will also be easier for the recruiters to identify your documents.

Some companies may require you to send your application via email. In that case, attach in the email all your application documents such as your CV, cover letter, and other certificates in PDF format. In the email content, write a short introduction about your application to the particular role and mention the attached documents.

Alternatively, you can copy and paste your cover letter into your email. Remove the address and the date in that case. Use your subject line in the cover letter as the subject of your email. The content of your email basically becomes your cover letter.

The format of a cover letter in Germany

A cover letter in Germany is a very formal letter. It follows the basic format of a typical business letter. Recruiters in Germany are used to this specific format. So, you should try to follow this format. Your cover letter may be viewed negatively if you use a format that is too different than the norm.

Keep it short and straightforward. Your cover letter should not be longer than one page. Also, leave plenty of space and don’t fill the page completely.  

The standard font size is 12. Your font should be readable. Do not use an unusual font that is too big or too small. Use a professional font such as Times New Roman. 

Besides, use the same fonts and font size throughout your cover letter. Your cover letter should be easy to read. 

You should also use the same formatting in all your other application documents. For example, you should use the same style for both your CV and cover letter.

Your cover letter needs to be readable. Don’t write a large block of text in your cover letter. Separate your text with clear paragraph breaks. There should be enough spacing between the different paragraphs as well.

Your cover letter should follow the layout rule called the  DIN 5008 Norm . It means that on an A4 size letter, the margin should follow the below standard:

• Left margin: 2.5 cm
• Right margin: 2 cm
• Upper margin: 4.5 cm
• Lower margin: 1.5 – 2.5 cm

The structure of a cover letter in Germany

Your personal info.

You should include your personal info in the top right-hand corner. This includes your full name, address, phone number, and email. Your email address should look professional, ideally with your name on it.

The company’s info

You should write this on the left-hand side below your personal info. Put the company name, contact person, and company address there. You should put the contact person’s name on the second line, under the company name.

Usually, you can find the contact person’s name in the job advertisement. If not, don’t be afraid to call the company to find out who handles the job applications.

Write the date in European format and place it below the company’s info on the right-hand side.

The subject line should state what position you are applying for. You should bold it so that the recruiter can easily spot which position this cover letter is for.

Use the name of the contact person you stated in the company’s info. Research the company culture to see if using the first or last name is more appropriate. If you are not sure, always go for the last name.

This should include:

• The first paragraph (introduction)
• The second paragraph
• The third paragraph
• The last paragraph (short closure)

Sign here and write your name below your signature.

Enclosure (Anlage)

Under your signature, you should name which attachments you are sending in the job application, e.g., CV, reference letters, etc.

The content of a cover letter in Germany

The content of a cover letter in Germany should consist of four paragraphs. Do not repeat what you have stated in your CV. Your cover letter should sound unique. The goal is not to tell your whole story. Instead, give a preview and make it interesting enough so that the recruiter wants to know more.

Position yourself ahead of other candidates by focusing on the value you can bring to the company, but not what you can get from the company.

The first paragraph (introduction) – 3 to 4 lines

This is an important paragraph. The recruiter reads this to determine if he wants to continue reading your cover letter. So, the goal of this paragraph is to arouse interest and make the recruiter continue to read.

Why are you applying for the position?

For example, you want to have a career change, or you have just relocated to the city. And explain why. You should promote yourself even if you are unemployed by mentioning something positive.

Also, mention something company-specific. For example, you can convince the company that you want to work there because of their company mission. Maybe the company operates in a way that minimizes damage to the environment? Or perhaps the company sponsors social projects?

Where did you learn about this position?

State where exactly you learn about the position, e.g., from a job portal. If you talk with someone from the company at a job fair, mention the person’s name. 

Similarly, if you learn about the position via a friend or an employee from the company, mention this person’s name as soon as possible. This can arouse interest and encourage the recruiter to keep reading your cover letter. 

What is your current position?

If you want, you may also describe your current position here. If you have not graduated yet, you can mention your course of studies.

The second paragraph – 5 to 6 lines

This paragraph should show your skills, abilities, qualifications, and experience. Mention any achievement that makes you unique and show your strength. Make sure to mention only those that are related to the position. 

Tell the recruiter where you learn these skills, for example, from your past job experiences. Don’t be afraid to mention your private projects if they are relevant. It can show your personality and your initiative beyond your profession.

Remember, you should not be just telling. You should prove your skills with evidence. For example, instead of just saying that you have good leadership skills, mention that you have successfully led a specific project as an example. Do not write too many details, though. The recruiter can read the related information in the CV.

The third paragraph (5 to 6 Lines)

Here is where you link your skills to the position you are applying for. Show how your unique skills and experiences listed in the last paragraph are relevant to the job and the company. Tell the company exactly what you have to offer and how you can help the company to be successful.

Use some personal examples to show how you can use your experience to help to achieve the company’s goals. Tell them what you can do for the company that no one else can do.

Pay attention to which skills are listed in the job description. Make sure you demonstrate how you own these skills by providing examples.

Besides, explain why you want to work in this particular company and this role. Look at the company’s missions and vision. Check the company’s website or social media channels to state any exciting facts. 

Maybe you are interested in the company because it supports social projects? Or perhaps because it has an informal corporate culture? Be genuine and tell the company why working there aligns with your values. Make sure to mention the company’s name.

The last paragraph (short closure) – 3 to 4 lines

This is where you highlight your interest again. Describe what you wish for the future and explain how you can contribute to the company. Tell the company when you can start working, and only mention your salary expectation if required. 

Close politely by saying that the company can contact you in case of any questions and you look forward to talking with them in a  job interview .

Free Cover letter example to use in Germany

Do you want to feel what a cover letter looks like in Germany? Here you go.

You can also download this German cover letter example for your own use here .

10 Tips to write your cover letter in Germany

1. do not use the same cover letter for different job applications.

Different jobs have different requirements and descriptions. Every company is different. You should tailor-make your cover letter for each job application. This is important because recruiters want to see that you have made an effort when applying for the job. 

You should research the company and tell them why you want to work for them specifically. Mention what attracts you to work there based on your research. Check the company’s website, review, and social media channels to get some ideas. Pay attention to the job requirements and relate to them when writing your cover letter. You should also write with the same wording and tone used by the company.

Recruiters can feel it if you just use a general cover letter without mentioning some facts about the specific company. So, show your research capability and customize your cover letter.

2. Include keywords in your cover letter

Many recruiters use software that scans application documents and searches for specific keywords. This software helps to filter out irrelevant applicants and thus saves time for the recruiters.

What does it mean for you? Well, suppose your application documents do not include the keywords the recruiters want to see. In that case, your documents will be filtered out and never be seen by the recruiters. So, including keywords helps you to pass the first stage and get your application documents in front of the recruiters.

Want to understand if your application documents include the right keywords? Use this  free tool to get your CV analyzed! You can see how the software presents you in front of the recruiters regarding top keywords and skills.

3.      Proofread your cover letter

Your cover letter in Germany should not have any grammatical or spelling mistakes. Make sure you contain the correct details, the right company name, and the proper job position. Otherwise, it will show that you are careless and not professional.

The best would be to have someone else proofread your cover letter. You can ask your friend or hire a professional to do it. This is especially important if you decide to submit your cover letter in German and you are still learning German. In that case, you may want to use the proofreading (and/or translation) service from Lingoking .

Writing your cover letter in German may have the advantage that your letter includes the right keywords scanned by the software.

As mentioned before, only write your cover letter in German if you have sufficient German language skills. You won’t want to give false hope to the recruiters that you speak perfect German while you cannot. You can also indicate your German language level in your cover letter and CV. This is so that the recruiters have a realistic expectation of your language skills.

Suppose you want your whole application to be taken care of. In that case, TopCV offers packages including both the CV and cover letter. The service ensures that your application documents are professionally written, well-formatted, and keyword optimized. 

4. Be honest and confident

Your cover letter should reflect the truth. For example, do not write that you can communicate in German while you cannot. Instead, indicate that you are working hard on improving your German. The recruiters will appreciate your effort if you are sincere and can prove it with examples.

Besides, you need to be confident and state clearly why the company should hire you instead of other candidates.  Show confidence by writing “I am sure I will…” instead of “I think I would…”. Mention the interview like it is going to happen. For example, you can write, “I am looking forward to discussing more with you in a personal interview.”

5. Keep it short and relevant

You should keep your cover letter on one page. Use a simple layout so that your letter is easily readable. Only write relevant information on why the company should hire you. Avoid flowery language and long wordy sentences.

Your cover letter shows your ability to sell yourself without much fluff. It should be concise and full of sound arguments why the company should hire you specifically.  

6. Make sure your social media is clean

Nobody wants to see drunk pictures of you at a party. Before applying for jobs, search the internet with your name and see what comes up. You should remove any unprofessional content on your social media, such as Facebook or Instagram.

Besides, create a professional LinkedIn page. Nowadays, many recruiters rely on LinkedIn when searching for talents. Make sure your LinkedIn page looks professional and up to date.

7. Avoid passive voice

Your cover letter should sound positive. You should use only active verbs because they make your writing more exciting and dynamic. You can show the “who” and “how” in a sentence.

On the other hand, passive voice is generally weak. It describes simply a state of existence without action. In your cover letter, you should sound active and be responsible for your achievements.

8. Think from the perspective of the recruiters

My friend once asked me to proofread her cover letter. I was shocked to see that everything was written from her perspective and why she wanted to work for the company in her cover letter.

When writing your cover letter in Germany, make sure it is not all about you. It is about what value you can bring to the company. Think from the perspective of the recruiters. What are they looking for? What do they want to see from a candidate? Rephrase your skills and experiences and make them relevant to the requirements stated in the job advertisement.

It is not just about what you can get from the company but also what the company receives from you.

9. Use examples

Do not just mention you have good communication skills or leadership skills. Instead, you should prove your skills by giving examples. Use numbers and data whenever possible. For example, leading a team of 10 people or leading a project that resulted in a 10% increase in revenue. Focus on the result and not simply your participation in the project.

10. Formatting and style are important

Your cover letter should be formal. Use complete sentences instead of bullet points. You should also use the same formatting and style in your CV so that your application d ocuments look consistent. Avoid unusual font and size. The best is to follow  the German format  de scribed in this article.

The cover letter is an essential part of your job application in Germany. Its goal is to get an invitation to the job interview. Your cover letter allows you to show your personality based on your tone and how you write.

Take it seriously. Be concise, professional, and also friendly. Remember to adapt your cover letter to the style of different companies. Good luck and happy job hunting in Germany!

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How is your job hunting progress in Germany? Did the recruiters in Germany ask you questions based on your cover letter? Leave a comment below and share your experience!

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Work Visa in Germany: Everything you need to know

Table of Contents

Getting a German Work Visa: Everything you need to know

Germany is like a big, friendly home that offers many opportunities for people looking to work there. With its strong economy, innovative spirit, and plenty of job openings, it’s a popular destination for workers from around the globe. If you’re considering moving to Germany for a job , it’s crucial to learn how to get a work visa. This guide will help you understand all you need to know about securing a Work Visa in Germany , breaking down the process into simple steps for you to follow.

Types of Long-Stay Work Visa in Germany

Germany has different types of visas for people who want to stay there for a longer time because of their work. If you have a job waiting for you, want to work on your own as a freelancer, or if you’re looking to find a job once you’re in the country, Germany has a visa that fits what you’re looking for.

Different Types of Work Visa in Germany depending on what you want to do there:

• Employment Visa : Perfect if you already have a job offer in Germany.
• Self-Employment Visa : For those who want to start their own business or work as freelancers in Germany.
• Jobseeker Visa : This lets you live in Germany while you look for a job.
• Au Pair Visa : Great for young adults who want to learn about German culture and language by living there.
• Working Holiday Visa: For young people from certain countries that have an agreement with Germany, allowing them to work and travel there.

Each type of visa has its own rules and steps to apply, so it’s important to pick the one that fits best with your work plans and situation.

Who Needs a German Work Visa?

If you’re from the EU/EEA, the USA, Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, or the Republic of Korea, you’re in luck. You don’t need to get a visa before you go to Germany to work. Instead, you can just travel to Germany and then apply for a permit to live and work there. But, if you want to start working right away, you need to make sure you apply for a work permit and get it approved before you begin your job.

Who Can Apply Work Visa in Germany?

Germany is really keen on bringing in people who are very good at their jobs and specialists in certain areas. If you fit into one of these groups, you can apply for a Germany Employment Visa :

• Highly Qualified Foreigners: This includes people who are good at certain technical stuff, or teachers and scientists who are recognized for their work.
• Intra-Corporate Transferees: If you’re a manager or a specialist and your company wants to move you to their office in Germany.
• Skilled Workers in Shortage Professions: If you have a university degree or special training in a job that Germany really needs more people for.

How to Apply for a German Work Visa?

Getting a work visa for Germany involves several important steps, starting with getting a job offer.

Here’s what you need to do:

•  Check Visa Requirements: First, find out what kind of visa you need based on your job and if you meet the criteria for it.
•  Submit an Application: Apply for your visa at the German embassy or consulate in your country.
• Gather Necessary Documents: Collect all the documents you need for your application, like your passport, job offer, and any other required papers.

It’s really important to pay attention and make sure you have everything ready and filled out correctly during this process.

Documentation: What You’ll Need?

When applying for a work visa to Germany, the documentation you’ll need can vary depending on the specific type of work visa you’re applying for. However, there are some common documents that are typically required for most work visa applications. Here is a general list of documents you might need:

Basic Documentation for a German Work Visa

1. Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned date of departure from Germany.

2. Visa Application Form: Completed and signed. The specific form can vary based on the type of visa you’re applying for.

3. Recent Passport Photos: Usually, two recent passport-size photographs according to the biometric specifications.

4. Cover Letter: Explaining the purpose of your visit, your plans in Germany, the duration of your stay, and other details about your application.

5. CV/Resume: Detailing your academic qualifications and job experience.

6. Job Offer Letter/Contract: From your employer in Germany, indicating the details of your employment, including position, salary, and duration of the contract.

7. Proof of Qualification: Diplomas, certificates, and/or proof of professional experience relevant to your job offer.

8. Proof of Accommodation: Evidence of where you will stay in Germany, which could be a rental agreement or a letter from your host.

9. Health Insurance: Proof of a health insurance policy that is valid in Germany for the duration of your stay until you are covered by the German social security system.

10. Proof of Financial Means: To show you can support yourself during your stay. This could be bank statements, a letter of obligation from your host in Germany, or a blocked account.

Additional Documents for Specific Visa Types

• EU Blue Card: Proof of a university degree and a job offer with a salary that meets the set minimum for Blue Card holders.
• Freelancer Visa/Self-Employment: A detailed business plan, evidence of potential clients, proof of investment capital, and qualifications relevant to your business.
• ICT Card: Documents from your employer about the intra-corporate transfer, including the duration of your transfer and your role in the company.
• Researcher Visa: Hosting agreement or contract with a research institution in Germany.

 Process Tips

• Document Verification: Some documents may need to be translated into German or English by a certified translator.
• Appointment: Schedule an appointment at the German embassy or consulate in your home country to submit your visa application.
• Preparation: Prepare for a short interview regarding your trip, employment, and plans in Germany.
• Updates: Requirements can change, so it’s important to check the current requirements on the official website of the German embassy or consulate where you will apply.

This list covers the general requirements for most work visa applications to Germany. However, always verify the specific requirements for your visa type on the Federal Foreign Office of Germany website or contact the German embassy or consulate directly.

Where to Apply: Navigating the Submission Process

You need to submit your German work visa application to the German embassy or consulate in the country where you live. Sometimes, a Visa Application Center or an embassy/consulate of another country might take care of the visa applications for Germany. It’s really important to check and make sure where you should submit your application to avoid any hold-ups.

Timing Is Everything: Processing Time for Germany Work Visa

The time it takes to get a work visa in Germany can be anywhere from 1 to 3 months. This can change depending on how many people are applying at the same time and your own situation. It’s a good idea to start the process early and give yourself plenty of time. This way, you can make sure everything goes smoothly as you get ready to start your new job in Germany.

Upon Arrival: Securing Your Residence Permit

Once you arrive in Germany with a job visa, there are several important steps you need to take to ensure a smooth transition into your new life and employment. Following these steps will help you settle in Germany legally and comfortably:

1. Register Your Address

• Where: At the local Residents’ Registration Office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt).
• When: Within 14 days of your arrival in Germany.
• What you need: Passport, visa, and proof of address (rental contract or a letter from the landlord).

2. Open a Bank Account

• Why: To manage your finances, receive your salary, and pay bills.
• What you need: Passport, registration certificate from the Einwohnermeldeamt, and possibly your employment contract.

3. Apply for a Residence Permit

• Where: At the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde) in your city.
• When: Before your job visa expires.
• What you need: Passport, job visa, health insurance proof, address registration certificate, job offer letter or employment contract, and possibly additional documents depending on your specific situation.

4. Enroll in Health Insurance

• Why: Health insurance is mandatory in Germany for all residents.
• Options: Public health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) if your salary is below a certain threshold, or private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung) if above.
• What to do: Compare providers and select a plan that suits your needs.

5. Get a Tax ID

• How: Automatically issued when you register your address.
• Why: Needed for tax purposes and to be legally employed in Germany.
• What to do: Provide your tax ID to your employer.

6. Familiarize Yourself with Local Laws and Customs

• Why: Understanding local practices, holidays, and laws (e.g., recycling regulations, noise ordinances) will help you integrate more smoothly into German society.

7. Learn the Language

• Why: While many Germans speak English, knowing German will greatly enhance your daily life, work interactions, and social integration.
• How: Enroll in language courses or use online resources and apps.

8. Social Security Registration

• How: Your employer usually handles this.
• Why: To be covered by the German social security system, including health insurance, pension, unemployment insurance, and accident insurance.

 Tips for a Smooth Transition

• Stay Organized: Keep all your documents neatly filed and easily accessible.
• Seek Support: Many cities offer welcome services for international professionals and their families.
• Explore and Network: Join clubs, attend meetups, and connect with colleagues to build your social network.

 Additional Steps for Families

If you are bringing family members with you:

• Register them: At the Einwohnermeldeamt.
• School/Kindergarten: Arrange for their education.
• Health Insurance: Include them in your policy.

Following these steps will not only help you comply with German regulations but also ease your integration into your new environment. Welcome to Germany, and wishing you a successful and fulfilling experience!

Job Hunting Tips: Finding Your Dream Job in Germany

If you’re still looking for a job in Germany, there are many ways to help you find one. You can use online job websites and work with recruitment agencies that help people find jobs.

You can also try reaching out to German companies directly. When you apply for jobs, make sure your application looks the way German employers expect. This might include how your resume (CV) is formatted and the details you include. Also, be ready to go to Germany for interviews if needed. Putting effort into these steps can really help you get a job in Germany.

Starting a career in Germany is an exciting adventure that comes with lots of chances and things to think about. By knowing what kinds of Work Visas in Germany are, figuring out if you can get one, and carefully putting together your visa application.

Finding your way through the job market, you’re getting ready for a great work experience in one of the most active economies in the world. As you start this journey, keep in mind that being well-prepared, keeping at it, and being patient is very important. They will help you make your dream of working in Germany come true.

Read More at How to Abroad

Freelancer Visa in Germany: Everything you need to know

Job Seeker Visa (JSV) in Germany: Everything you need to know

Want to study in Germany? How To Abroad can help you achieve your academic dreams.

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Employment guides & Tools

Cover letter in germany (anschreiben).

Together with your CV ( Lebenslauf ) , the cover letter is a key component of any job application in Germany. Far more than a mere formality, a cover letter is an important means of presenting yourself to a prospective employer. It would be difficult to land a job in Germany without one. This page walks you through the process of crafting a job-winning cover letter, with a few hints and tips about what is expected in the federal republic. 

Cover letter in German ( Anschreiben )

First things first: what is a cover letter? Although it may be tempting to send in your job application without one, a cover letter is an important part of job applications in Germany, and most hiring managers will expect to receive one, even if the vacancy listing does not explicitly specify this. 

A cover letter is a short (usually no more than one page) document that you submit together with your resume as part of your job application. Rather than simply repeating the information contained in your CV, its purpose is to expand upon it, summarising your skills and experience, explaining what makes you a good fit for the role, and (hopefully!) piquing the hiring manager’s interest. While a CV lays out the facts, your cover letter conveys more personality. You can expect to be asked about both if you make it to a job interview .

In Germany, a cover letter ( Anschreiben ) generally follows a prescribed format, which makes it easier to structure your own. 

Cover letter templates

Using a template can be a good way to get started, and will also ensure your cover letter is well-formatted. If you used a template for your CV, it’s a good idea to use the same design for your cover letter, to make your application look professional and consistent. 

The following websites offer cover letter templates: 

• Novorésumé

How to write a cover letter in Germany

German cover letters are not fundamentally different to those in other countries, with the only possible difference being they are rather formal and matter-of-fact, with no credit given to pomp, exaggerations or overly flowery language. 

As with elsewhere in the world, your cover letter in Germany should be succinct - no more than one side of A4 in size 12 font. You also do not want to present the hiring manager with a dense wall of text, so make sure to break it up into sizeable paragraphs. 

It may be time-consuming, but you should also write a unique(ish) cover letter for each job you apply for. Recruiters don’t like to receive form letters - and sending off a generic letter is a sure-fire way to ensure your application ends up in the bin. You need to explain why you want this specific position , and what makes you particularly suited for it - so tailor your cover letter based on the responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description, and what you know about the company. 

Cover letter format

If you’re not sure where to start, it can help to break the letter down into a few sections. Almost all cover letters are structured around the same tried-and-tested format: 

• A header with your contact information
• A greeting to the hiring manager
• An opening paragraph that will grab the reader’s attention
• A second paragraph that explains why you’re the perfect fit for the job
• A third paragraph that outlines why you’re a good match for the company
• A formal closing

How to start a cover letter: With a header

Writing your contact header is a good way to ease yourself in, and ensure you’re not staring at a blank page. As with a CV, it’s important to include some basic contact information on your cover letter. You should include: 

• Phone number
• Email address
• Name of the hiring manager
• Name of the company you’re applying to

You might also consider adding your social media profiles or the address of your personal website, if these are relevant in your field and to the job you’re applying for. 

Address the hiring manager

This is where you can score some easy marks. You’d be surprised how many people open their cover letters with, “Dear Sir or Madam.” That’s one way to turn off a hiring manager. It’s much better to address your letter to them personally. That means you need to do some research. 

If you’re lucky, this information is included in the job description. You should also check the “Team” or “About us” page on the company’s website. Alternatively, you could turn to LinkedIn to find out who’s head of the relevant department. If in doubt, call up the company and ask who you should address your application to. It might make your name stick out when it comes to sifting through CVs. 

As a last resort, if you really can’t get hold of a name, address your cover letter using one of these greetings:

• Dear [Department] Hiring Manager
• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear [Department or Company Name] Team

Write your introduction

This is worth taking your time over. Companies typically receive hundreds of applications for single positions, and so they’re not going to be reading every cover letter from top to bottom. You need to grab their attention from the first paragraph. 

The key here is to not be too generic - most applicants will probably have similar work experience and interests. Instead, you need to explain what makes you unique. What is your bottom-line USP? That’s what the recruiter wants to know. 

Explain why you’re a good fit for the job

Next, it’s time to get into the meat of your letter, by outlining your professional skills, and explaining why this experience makes you better-qualified than the other applicants. It’s a good idea to have the job description to hand when you write this section. Match the requirements listed by the company to elements from your own skill set and work history, and elaborate on them. 

But there’s no way you’ll have space to cover every single detail. Instead, pick two or three of the most important requirements and use them to spin a couple of compelling stories from your own experience. 

Explain why you want to work for the company

The final section of your cover letter is just as important: explaining why you want to work for this specific company. Hiring managers want to know that you’d be a good fit for the company culture - that you want this job, not just any job - otherwise you’d be a risky hire. 

This might require you to do some extra research - what do you know about the company and its products or services? What’s the work culture like? What about that enthuses you? It pays to be super specific. 

Wrap things up

That’s it - you’re almost there! Now you need to finish with a conclusion that wraps up your letter. If you have anything else you want to say, now’s your chance. Finally, thank the hiring manager for their time (it’s only polite). 

Then, it’s time to sign off with a formal closing. You could use: 

• Best regards
• Kind regards
• Yours sincerely

Once your cover letter is finished and proofread, you’re ready to send off your application. Put your feet up and wait for a response. 

Should I write my cover letter in German?

Whether or not you should write your cover letter in German depends on a few factors, namely: 

• The language requirements of the job
• What is specified on the job description
• Your own language ability

If a job description specifies that applications should be made in German, it’s best to follow this advice. If your language ability isn’t up to the task of writing a CV and cover letter in German, it may be that the job itself is also beyond your language capabilities. 

However, an increasing number of companies in Germany, specifically international companies , are now offering English-speaking roles, although some still require you to apply in German. In this instance, it’s worth submitting your documents in German (you can ask a German-speaking friend to help, at least by checking your finished CV and cover letter over). To really show off your language skills, you could submit both English and German versions of your application. 

Cover letter examples

Not sure where to start? It can be a good idea to read some example cover letters to give you an idea of what is expected. But don’t be tempted to copy them word for word - you want to convey your own, unique personality, not someone else’s.

English cover letter sample

The internet is full of examples of cover letters written in English. Check out popular websites like Novorésumé, Monster.com, Reed, Indeed, and LiveCareer. 

German cover letter example

Checking out a German cover letter example can also be a good way of getting started, especially if German is not your native language. Look at websites like Karrierebibel, Bewerbung.net and Staufenbiel, or simply search “ Anschreiben Beispiel ”, to get a good idea of how German cover letters are structured. 

Cover letter tips

• Make sure your cover letter is correctly formatted and free of spelling and grammatical errors - ideally, have a friend check it over for you before sending it. 
• Include your personal details at the top of your letter.
• Do your research to address the hiring manager by name.
• Always tailor your cover letter to match the job description.
• Use specific, concrete examples from your work history to back up your points.
• End with a formal signing-off.
• Make sure your letter is no longer than one side of A4. 

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Your application

Did you find an exciting job advertisement? Then it is time to send in your application. In Germany, documents are usually sent in a PDF file within an email , or they are uploaded directly to the company's career website. Applying by post with a special application folder is rarely required. 

Read the job advertisement carefully: there might be a sentence at the end about what kind of application is required and what documents must be submitted. These usually include a cover letter, a CV and additional references.

Cover letter/motivation letter

The cover letter gives the company a first impression of you. You should introduce yourself, explain why you are interested in the job and describe your own strengths. Use examples from your previous jobs. Try to express yourself convincingly and present yourself in a way that distinguishes you from others. What makes you stand out? Why are you the right person for this job? Moreover, write about why you want to work for this company in particular. 

You can read about the formal requirements of a cover letter  on the Europass website.

Curriculum vitae

In the curriculum vitae (CV) you give an overview of your personal and professional career. The CV typically has the format of a table. In Germany, applicants are often expected to include a photo in their CV – however, there are major differences between professional industries in this regard. 

The following categories belong in the CV: 

• Personal data: name, address, contact details 
• Work experience: which companies did you work for? What was your position there, and what tasks did you complete? This information should be listed antichronologically – most recent job first. 
• Education: all information on school, vocational training, studies and further training is to be listed antichronologically. List the name of the schools and universities, your courses of study and your final grades, starting with the degree you acquired the most recently. 
• Language skills: which languages do you speak, and how well do you speak them? Use the standards of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) as a guide, for example: “English: C1”.
• Unique skills and interests: do you happen to have any extraordinary computer skills or private interests that are important for your job? Have you been socially or politically active? 

On the  Europass  website, you will find helpful information on the formal design of your CV and cover letter, and you can create your CV online according to a standardised format in  German  or in  English . However, companies in Germany usually appreciate an individual design for your application; hence, you can use the Europass CV as a guide and then adjust it to your individual style.

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Are you considering working in Germany? The Federal Employment Agency (BA) can support you with their free-of-charge comprehensive advisory services. The BA’s international experts are at your side – from the beginning of your application, right up to when you start to work and live in Germany. Let us guide you through your opportunities on the German job market.

Certificates

Finally, add the most essential certificates to the application documents. These may include certificates from vocational training as well as your school and university diplomas. Here  you can find more on the topic of “Recognition of vocational qualifications”. If you have any references or letters of recommendation from previous employers, attach these as well. 

Please beware

It is best to have your certificates translated into German or English, so that the company is able to understand your achievements. Allow enough time for the translation process, so that you do not miss the deadlines. 

Congratulations, you sparked the company’s interest with your application, and they have invited you for an interview. The interview is a chance for you and the company to get to know each other. You will usually meet a manager from the department you would like to work in and one from the HR department. 

They will most likely ask questions about your CV, your expectations for the job and the salary, as well as your skills and interests. They may also want to see how well you speak German or English or give you a practical task. Some might ask why you would like to work in Germany and what you expect from your life in Germany.

Preparation

To prepare for the interview, you should read up on the company beforehand, e.g. in which countries it is active or who their target group is. Make sure to prepare some answers about your skills, strengths and weaknesses. In addition, think about questions you could ask your interviewer to show your interest. 

Aside from the content of the interview, a few standards are crucial: Be on time and switch off your smartphone. Dress appropriately, for example in a suit. However, since the dress code is slightly different in every industry, you should inform yourself well beforehand.

The Assessment Center

Companies often hold Assessment Centers for higher positions. This is a special kind of selection procedure that takes longer and is more elaborate than an interview. Several applicants complete certain tasks together: For example, you may be asked to take part in group discussions, role plays or presentations. In this way, the company wants to find out how you approach problems, deal with stressful situations and use your soft skills .

You do not live in Germany?

If you get an invitation for a face-to-face interview, clarify the question of travel costs. Explain to the company that you are travelling from abroad and ask whether you will have to pay for the tickets and hotel yourself or whether the company will cover the costs. You can also ask if you can alternatively conduct the interview on the phone or via a video conference platform. Keep the time difference in mind! 

Non-EU citizens should also check which entry regulations apply to them if you are entering the country at short notice for an interview. The job search opportunity card gives you the opportunity to come to Germany for up to one year to look for work. Any costs incurred must be borne by you. 

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Home > Blog > Guides > Schengen Visa Cover Letter

Schengen Visa Cover Letter

on 22 Nov, 2021

Guide To The Cover Letter For Your Schengen Visa Application

What is a schengen visa application cover letter.

A Schengen Visa Cover Letter (or Covering Letter) is a document written by you and addressed to the Schengen Embassy/Consulate along with the other documents you are required to submit. 

The letter should provide additional information concerning the purpose of your trip and your intentions to return to your country of residence. 

The letter acts as a personal introduction as it shows to the Embassy/Consulate officers a brief summary of your travel background (e.g., travel dates, employment background, etc.). 

In other words, your cover letter is a summary of your Visa application . 

Your Covering Letter For Schengen Visa Is The First Direct Contact Between You And The Embassy

The cover letter represents a way of communication between you and the embassy officer, in which you are explaining your reasons for your trip and why you should be accepted. 

Please note that some Embassies/Consulates have chosen to outsource the Visa application process meaning that you have to submit your application through an outsourcing company such as VFS Global. 

In this case, your cover letter is your only chance to communicate with the Embassy/Consulate officers and explain your details and the reason why you believe they should grant you a Visa as well as your intentions to only travel and not to overstay your Visa, as they will not be able to see you face-to-face.

This letter is not a mandatory requirement meaning that the applications that do not include it will not necessarily be rejected or delayed. 

However, we strongly recommend and urge you to submit it as it does more than make a good impression on the Embassy/Consulate officers and speed up your Visa application process – Your cover letter can significantly increase your chances of success because it summarises every item you have provided. 

You should submit a Visa application cover letter even if you have been invited by a partner company to the Schengen Region and you are applying for a Business Visa .

The Importance Of The Schengen Visa Cover Letter

The cover letter is an important document as it gives you the chance to introduce yourself and make your travel purpose clear. 

The letter is important for your application because:

● It gives you the opportunity to provide information that your other documents cannot provide.

Most of the documents that you must submit are official documents that cannot clearly highlight your travel background. 

In other words, your covering letter is the only document that can actually tell a story. 

Telling a story can be a powerful communication tool because the Embassy/Consulate officers can understand who you actually are and why you should get a Visa. 

● It helps the Visa officers save time and therefore speed up your application process.

Embassies/Consulates receive hundreds of applications weekly. 

Sometimes, those responsible for processing them do not have time and patience to figure out the purpose of the journey and the intentions to return to the country of residence by analysing all of the documents of each single Visa applicant. 

This does not mean that they do not check your documents carefully but they typically do it to determine if they show consistency. Therefore, this letter can simply make your application process easier for them.  

How To Get A Schengen Visa Cover Letter

Getting most of your Visa application documents depends on bureaucracy/laws in your country of residence/other people that must write and sign your documents. 

The cover letter is the only document that you must write and sign by yourself (together with the Visa Application Form and your day-to-day travel itinerary ).

Once you have gathered all of your documents, you can write the letter on your computer. 

We recommend you write it after you gather the rest of your documents because the letter should include a list of the documents that you are submitting for your application. 

Important: If you are not familiar with this type of letter, you can download one of our templates (please select the one that is the most relevant for your situation) and fill it out following our suggestions. Please contact us for further details.   

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Writing A Schengen Visa Cover Letter

Even though the cover letter should not be very long and must contain only key information about you as an applicant, there are several mistakes that you should avoid making. 

Also, do not forget that the cover letter does not have to be too long and the information on it must match the information on your other documents .  

Not all the below errors can lead to the rejection of your application but your chances of approval may decrease. 

Therefore, we strongly recommend you double-check your covering letter before submitting it so that you can be sure it does not contain one of the following mistakes:

• Not using logical arguments to explain the purpose of your trip and your intentions to return to your country of residence

Logical reasoning is a powerful tool not only for your covering letter but also during the interview with the Embassy/Consulate officers. 

Make sure you know how to explain the reason as to why you travel to the Schengen Region and your intentions to return to your country of residence. 

For example, “ I want to visit France because I like it ” or “ I want to visit France because it is a nice country ” are not logical reasons as to why you want to visit France (or another Schengen country). 

You should be more specific. For example: “ I want to visit France because I’ve been fascinated by French culture ever since I was a child ”. 

The same rule applies to the explanation of your intentions to return to your country of residence. Writing “ I will return to my country of residence because I cannot stay in the Schengen Region ” is not a logical reason as to why you will not overstay your Visa. 

You can write instead: “ I will return to my country on August 15 because my employer did not allow me to take more than 3 weeks off ” or “ I will return on September 20 because I must attend a vocational training course upon the request of my employer .”

• Providing the same information that is already outlined by your other documents

One of the purposes of your covering letter is to outline details about your trip that are not indicated by your other documents. 

For example, in case of a tourist Visa application you should not write: “ I will be travelling to France between October 20, 2020, and November 17, 2020, and I will stay at Hotel Lafayette in 23 Rue des Messageries, Paris .” 

Of course, this information is important because it shows relevant details about your trip but the Embassy/Consulate officers can easily understand your trip details by checking your flight and hotel reservations. 

As we mentioned above, you should try to tell a story in your covering letter (even though you have to maintain a professional tone). 

For example, you can write: “ I will be travelling to France between October 20, 2020, and November 17, 2020. I have chosen to spend almost one month in France as I strongly believe that I need time to visit the most important tourist attractions and get to know the French culture. I will stay at Hotel Lafayette in 23 Rue des Messageries because the hotel is located within walking distance of the most important places of interest in Paris.”   

• Submitting a cover letter that contains spelling mistakes

Not all applicants have an excellent command of English, and the Embassy/Consulate officers won’t judge you if you make some grammar mistakes (especially because it is highly likely that English is not their native language).  

But a covering letter that contains too many spelling mistakes and does not follow some specific layout rules (the way that words are set up on the page) will make the Embassy/Consulate officers believe that you do not have a sense of consideration for the event and are not respecting the application process (which is your Schengen Visa application). 

Therefore, you need to pay attention to the spelling, punctuation, capitalisation, and layout of the letter. 

Please read carefully the two cover letter sample paragraphs below (please note that none of them is a complete sample cover letter and you need a more detailed template/sample in order to write a cover letter for Schengen Visa application):

Sample 1: 

“Dear sir madam I would like to apply at your consulate general for a schengen visa for visit friend in Netherlands.

My name is raji anand. I will be travelling from new delhi to amsterdam between octobr 15 and November 17  My employer has already approved my vacation and leave from work for the duration of 1 months. I hold an Indian passport no xxxxxx and I have attached passport size pictures to these cover letters. please do not hesitate to contact me for more information !Thanking you in advance, Raji anand. ”

“Dear Visa Officer,

I would like to apply for a Schengen Visa upon my intention to visit the Netherlands between October 15, 2020 and November 17, 2020.

My name is Raji Anand and I am an Indian citizen. I will be travelling from New Delhi to Amsterdam to visit my close friend, John Smith, who has also provided a sponsorship letter to support my Visa application as he will be covering all of the expenses for the duration of this trip.

I have attached to this letter the following documents [List of documents] .

Please do not hesitate to contact me for any questions and clarifications.

Raji Anand”

Bad spelling and writing mistakes (like the ones in the first sample) will make you seem less credible and the Embassy/Consulate officers may believe that you do not have a sense of consideration for your application process. 

At the same time, attention to details such as spelling, punctuation, and capitalisation (as shown by the second sample that we provided as an example) will make the Visa officers think that you are an organised and responsible person who put effort into preparing the Visa application.  

• Not presenting the list of documents you are submitting in order of priority

Show the Embassy/Consulate officers that you are an organised person. 

You should mention the list of documents that you are submitting for your application in order of priority (and not randomly). 

Start with the documents that are mandatory for all applicants no matter their personal situation (application form, passport, insurance, etc.) and then add the documents that are mandatory according to the purpose of your trip (e.g., hotel reservations ,   flight reservations , and travel itinerary – if you are applying for a tourist visa) and the documents that are mandatory according to your personal situation (e.g., employment contract , No Objection Certificate (NOC) Letter from your Employer, payslips , your bank statements , etc. – in case you are employed and you pay the expenses for your trip by yourself). 

For further details concerning the Schengen Visa requirements and the order that you should keep when listing them in your covering letter, please check out this blog post.  

• Submitting a Cover Letter that does not align to information and facts provided in other documents

The details and reasons outlined within your cover lettering must align to the same information and evidence you have provided in every other document you are submitting. 

If you contradict or state a point in your letter that does not align to the documents you provide to the Embassy/Consulate, you could jeopardise the entire application, which may cause your Schengen Visa to be rejected.

For example, if in your cover letter, you outline that you are travelling to stay with your family who lives in Italy but you do not include an invitation letter or sponsor for accommodation letter from them, then it contradicts the information in your application. 

Another example is that you say you are traveling for tourism but then you have an invitation letter from a business in your documents. Or, when your passport number and other personal details in your letter do not match the details in your other documents.

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There is no commitment to use our services at all, we just provide you advice based on our assessment of your situation and give you the next steps you need to follow to get your Schengen visa.

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• Study Abroad

Cover letter for German Student Visa–Tips and Tricks

• German Universities

Updated on 16 April, 2024

upGrad Abroad Team

Upgrad abroad editorial team.

For international students, who have already received a letter of admission from their preferred German university, the next big requirement is to obtain a student visa. To apply for a visa, an aspirant will need to complete all the relevant documentation, which also involves submitting a cover letter for a German student visa . Thus, to make a cover letter for visa application Germany, students need to know the best way. 

The cover letter is a very important document that every international student needs to attach with other certificates to meet the eligibility criteria. It is an important document for visa processing and students shouldn’t ignore it when applying for their visas. 

Through a cover letter for student visa applications in Germany, the officials handling their visa applications get to know them better. It is true that there are other documents that need to be submitted but a cover letter conveys all the information about the aspirant that is not communicated through the documents. Thus, it is a significant step in their study abroad dream but before they draft a German student visa cover letter, they should know everything about it for a visa in Germany.

Table of Contents

• What is a Cover Letter?

Cover Letter for German Visa Application:

Resources for german visa, what should a cover letter for a german student visa contain, formatting your cover letter, some tips for a formally drafted cover letter:, some common cover letter mistakes to avoid:, cover letter, statement of purpose, motivation letter, frequently asked questions, what is a cover letter .

A cover letter is an important document that needs to be presented at the time of visa documentation. A cover letter sheds light on information like the purpose of visit, why an aspirant wants to study abroad in Germany, and describes the student’s choice of course. It is a formal document and has a particular format that needs to be followed. In the nutshell, a cover letter that encapsulates the purpose of the visit to Germany is described. Since the number of international students traveling abroad exceeds the number of officials for face-to-face interviews, the importance of a cover letter for student visa applications shouldn’t be undermined. 

Guaranteed Cover Letter Acceptance. Get free Counselling

Visas applications and cover letters are not just limited to Germany. These are applicable for every foreign visit because the officials of a foreign country would be interested in knowing a few details about an individual traveling and the purpose of their journey. The main purpose of such verification is to reduce the possibility of any kind of threat from a foreign visitor. Apart from stating the purpose of their trip, they must also disclose details regarding the funding of their course in Germany. Moreover, students applying for studying at the university should state whether they have transferred € 10,356 to their German blocked account. 

Why is a cover letter important?

Germany is a popular study abroad destination for international students. Every year, the German embassies receive millions of cover letters for German student visas. It is, in fact, a daunting task to conduct one-on-one interviews with such a large number of candidates. Therefore, a cover letter plays an important role in helping officials make a final decision on a student’s visa application.

Important Visa Resources 

• Why Do Student Visas Get Rejected
• How to Check Visa Status

The main purpose of a German student visa cover letter is to convince the German officials of a student’s candidature. There are some very common guidelines for drafting a cover letter for a student visa application. Have a look at everything that you must include in your cover letter for a student visa in Germany:

• Introduction
• Previous academic and professional background
• The reason for visiting Germany for higher studies
• Present financial condition
• A list of documents that a student has attached with their cover letter

While drafting a cover letter for a German national visa be very formal and precise. To begin with, writing the introduction can be challenging. It can be intimidating to put the first few words on a blank paper. But keep the introduction short and interesting. This is not a part of your thesis or project, so the applicant should not elaborate much. Be concise and write simple sentences that do justice to their profile. Draft the introduction in a few lines and it should give a decent outline of their profile. In a nutshell, it is a synopsis of their intent to pursue a particular course at the German University and how equipped they are financially and academically to pursue the course.

Moreover, a cover letter for a student visa application Germany should state in a detailed manner alongside their academic achievements. Students should come across as ambitious in those few lines where they express their purpose of visit. Next comes the mention of the university and the course they are opting for. This part needs to be dealt with utmost clarity and precision. They also need to talk about their career plans in the cover letter. Be absolutely practical while discussing their career goals.

Sample Cover Letter for a Student Visa Application

Students would be in a position to draft a better cover letter for a student visa application Germany with the help of the following samples.

Date: – XX/XX/XXXX

To, The Visa Officer [Name of German Embassy/Consulate] [Address of German Embassy/Consulate]

Subject: Application for a Student Visa to pursue (course) at (the desirable university)

Respected Ma’am/Sir, I, XXX, holding an Indian passport, number XXX, would like to submit my application for a German National Student Visa as I intend to pursue my (course). Upon completing (last acquired degree) (mention the percentage). I stepped into the corporate world as a Manager which helped me to enhance my managerial and critical thinking skills by working at Accenture. After successfully collaborating with other stakeholders, I received the opportunity to work with KPMG as a Senior Manager. Furthermore, after handling various verticals and receiving a plethora of accolades for achieving my targets, I am looking forward to expanding my knowledge of the subject. To realize my dream of studying (program name) at the (university), I have planned my finances. My father is a successful businessman with an income of ₹50,000 per month. I have worked meticulously for the last year to increase my savings. Furthermore, I have decided to fund my education via an education loan. To take care of my living expenses, I have a German blocked account of € 10,356.

Being a commerce student, understanding the dynamics of finance is the right career decision for me. A (course) would offer me an edge. Moreover, the course would equip me with the best know-how and hands-on experience. Choosing (university name) is a prudent choice for me as it offers a dual degree for (course). I firmly believe that the course taught by professors will provide me with an unparalleled learning experience that will help me gain cognizance of the fundamentals emphasized in the course offered by (university name).

Germany is recognized for providing foreign students with practical learning opportunities from wealthy business leaders. I will gain a chance to explore international markets while studying in Germany as I would receive hands-on experience. In addition, I would have the opportunity to converse and learn from students of an array of ethnicities.

A German degree can fulfill my goal of contributing to a part of the premium workforce. I hope the visa officer considers my candidature positively to pursue my desired program.

Sincerely, (Name)

My name is XYZ, and I would like to submit my application with all the necessary documents for obtaining a student visa for two years. I plan to move to Germany to enhance my career prospects by pursuing higher education. I have been granted admission at ABC University for the Bachelor/Master program for the Fall/Winter/Summer/Spring intake in the year.

I am attaching the required documents to support my visa application-

• Application form
• Copy of passport
• Acceptance letter from a German university
• Academic transcript
• Bank account statement proof for sufficient funds 
• Health insurance proof
• Document authenticity declaration 
• IELTS score
• German language proficiency document (if required)

Kindly consider my student visa application and grant me permission to study in Germany.

Yours sincerely, XYZ  

A cover letter for a German student visa is an official document and must follow a specific format. There is a format that the officials in embassies follow for quick scanning of the documents, and it is advised that the aspirants follow the same. If students do not format their cover letter well, it might end up looking unprofessional. So, here’s how they should format their cover letter: 

• The date should always be at the very top left corner.
• Mention the German embassy’s name 
• Mention all the personal details, like name, address and passport number.
• Address the official.
• Mention relevant educational and professional work experience.
• Write down the course name and university in Germany where they are seeking admission.
• Wrap it up in a respectful manner. 
• Lastly, pen down their email address and contact. 

Keep it short and to the point. The cover letter should have all the information in a few lines. Students should write down their purpose of visit and other required information on a single cover letter page. Choose a formal tone and the right order of words. 

• Pay attention to the format

A formal document has an order, sequence, and format. The format is followed by the officials while checking the applications. If a student does not follow the format, their cover letter might confuse the officials while scanning their visa application. 

• Seek advice

Try and get help from someone who is already studying in Germany. They will help students with the basics and offer ideas to make their cover letters more persuasive.  

Mistakes in a cover letter may result in straightaway rejection of a student’s visa application. Since there is a cut-throat competition among international students who want to study in Germany, you cannot afford to commit any mistakes. There are some very common mistakes that students end up committing, and since this is going to be your first time applying for a student visa, they need to be careful. 

• Too personal

A formal cover letter should not be very personal and must not include requests. It should talk about their ambition of studying in Germany. Students should keep their tone formal yet polite to make sure they get a chance. Do not use informal words or phrases. 

• Spelling and grammatical errors

Be careful and check thoroughly for language errors before submitting the cover letter. Use simple words, and do not go for difficult vocabulary that might increase the risk of spelling mistakes. Simple and precise sentences without any careless mistakes will work best for them.  

• Mistake in the format

Always follow the cover letter format properly. It should be in the right order. Do not get confused with the structure of the cover letter that the German embassy officials want to be follow.

Comparison between Cover letter, Statement of Purpose, and Motivation Letter

Every document have its purpose, and even though it may confuse students, all of them are equally important and serve a unique purpose. So, if a student is applying for a visa, they should know about all three. Here’s the difference between a cover letter, statement of purpose, and motivation letter. 

It is an important document that every international student must attach with other certificates to meet the eligibility criteria. It is an important requirement for visa processing, and students shouldn’t ignore it when applying for their visas, until the requirement is raised. A good cover letter is enough to spark the interest of a visa officer.

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It presents a student’s personality and ambitions to the admissions committee and the visa officer. There are two types of SOPs for admission purposes and the other for visa applications. An SOP is critical for a visa as it presents your intention to go to another country for studies.  

As the name suggests, it is a letter that a student will have to write to the visa officer mentioning all the factors that motivated you to apply for higher education in Germany. They will have to meticulously explain how studying in Germany (or any other country) will enable them to achieve your ambitions. In this document, they will have to explain their long-term goals. 

A cover letter is an important document that plays a significant role in visa application approval. With a sound understanding of what a cover letter is, its essentials, content and common mistakes, it will be easy for students to draft the right one. And once they have completed their education there, a personal covering letter for a German employment visa will make sure they explore coveted work opportunities in Germany. 

A cover letter is an important document that plays a significant role in visa application approval. Now that you know what a cover letter is, its essentials, content and common mistakes, it will be easy for you to draft the right one. And once you have completed your education there, a personal covering letter for a German employment visa will make sure you explore coveted work opportunities in Germany. You can also connect with the upGrad Abroad team for the best assistance regarding a cover letter for a German student visa.

Also Read 

https://www.upgradabroad.com/articles/how-to-write-a-motivation-letter/  

https://www.upgradabroad.com/articles/statement-of-purpose-for-undergraduates/

https://www.upgradabroad.com/articles/statement-of-purpose-format/  

How do I write a cover letter for a German visa?

A student will have to add several paragraphs in the body of the letter, and each paragraph will discuss different aspects of their aims and profile. Please keep in mind that their Cover Letter should not be the same as your SOP or essay detailing their future objectives. It should contain the following information:

• Educational Brief 
• Employment History Reason for Choosing a particular course and desired university 
• Why Germany
• Financial Standing and Brief 
• Concluding Paragraph

What are the chances of German student visa rejections?

Germany is well known for its tuition-free education system. Therefore, the fact that a poor financial situation is the most frequent cause of a student visa being denied may surprise many overseas students. The German government wants to make sure a student has enough financial assistance to cover other living expenditures like housing, food, transit, and other costs. The German government wants students to concentrate on achieving high academic standards rather than taking jobs to make ends meet or, worse still, engaging in criminal activity. Due to this, the primary ground for denying a student visa to Germany is a lack of sufficient financial means to support oneself there.

We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education process for all. Our diverse experience as journalists, content writers, editors, content strategists, and marketers helps create the most relevant and authentic blogs for our readers.

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The German Bro.

How to write Cover Letter for your visa application?

If you have an appointment for a German student visa, you will be required to submit a cover letter at the time of the appointment. This is something that is not mentioned in the checklist provided by the German Embassy. I almost forgot about it and had to write it on the last day after a friend informed me about the requirement. I don’t want you to make the same mistake, so I will guide you on how to write it. Below, I have explained each step in detail with examples to help you write your cover letter on your own.

Let’s refer to the top section of the cover letter as the “Header.” This section typically includes your details, the recipient’s information, and a subject line explaining the purpose of the cover letter.

Personal Details : To begin, include your full name at the very top of the cover letter. On the following line, provide your address, and on the subsequent line, include your mobile number and email address. Double-check the accuracy of your personal details before submitting the cover letter.

Recipient Information : Next, clearly state the name of the organization or individual you are addressing your cover letter to. In this case, it would be the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany in New Delhi.

Subject : Write a concise and informative subject line that clearly states the purpose of your cover letter. Tailor the subject line to reflect the specific course you wish to participate in, thereby indicating your interest and intention.

When writing your cover letter, it is important to be concise and to the point. Avoid beating around the bush and address the main purpose directly. Visa officers are often busy, so it’s crucial to respect their time. In the example below, the cover letter starts by stating the name and passport number.

In the following paragraph, provide information about the university you are enrolled in or if you have received an invitation to take an exam from the university. Discuss the specific course you intend to pursue at the selected university and explain how you meet the qualifications for it. If there is a language requirement, mention your language proficiency.

The next section should provide more details about your chosen course. This will demonstrate to the visa officer that you have conducted thorough research and are genuinely interested in the program, rather than being just another applicant. Include information about the duration of the course, and if you are planning to attend Studienkolleg, indicate how long it will take and outline your plans for after completing it. The following is an example of the VSI Mint program at Saarland University.

Although not required, it is beneficial to present your past academic qualifications in a table format. This will allow the visa officer to easily see all your qualifications in one place.

The above-mentioned details are true and can be verified with the mark sheets attached.

Once you have discussed your courses and academic background, it’s time to outline your plan, including the intended date of your arrival in Germany and when your semester begins. You also need to address how you will finance your studies and living expenses in Germany. If you have a blocked account, you can mention it in your cover letter along with the total amount in the account.

Finally, list all the documents that you will be attaching to your visa application.

Finally, express gratitude to the visa officer and conclude your cover letter with your name and visa reference number, which you will receive upon booking an appointment with VFS.

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How to Write A Cover Letter For a Germany Student Visa?

Composing an effective cover letter for your Germany student visa application with expert guidance and free samples.

When applying for a German Student Visa, one of the most important documents you have to submit is the German Student Visa cover letter.

Many student visa applicants focus on obtaining the other necessary documents, such as school records, language certifications, and other bureaucratic requirements, and overlook the cover letter which is a mistake.

Why is the Cover Letter for German Student Visa so important? Well, your cover letter is what will let the visa officials who are handling your applications know you better. You can explain the reason why you want to study in Germany, why you chose that specific course and any other relevant information which may not be conveyed through the documents.

What should a Cover Letter for German Student Visa include?

The cover letter for student visa application for Germany has to convince the German Embassy or Consulate staff that you are a good fit to study in Germany. This means you have to include the following information.

• Introduction of yourself . Full name, age, nationality.
• Previous academic and/or professional background.
• Details about the university. Explain why you chose that particular university and why you think it will help you in the future. What will you do with a diploma from a German university?
• The reason why you want to study in Germany.
• Your financial situation. Explain how you will pay for the costs of living and studying in Germany. Will you pay for it yourself? Will your parents be supporting you? Do you have a sponsor in Germany? Do you have student assistance, such as a scholarship?
• Accommodation in Germany. Explain where you will be living if your visa application is successful.
• If applicable: Explanation of why you could not submit a particular document.

Be very specific and concise in your letter. Include all the essential information, but do not make it overly long and complicated.

German Student Visa Cover Letter Sample

Here is a sample of what your German student visa cover letter should look like:

[Country in which you are applying for the visa]

[Name of German Embassy/Consulate]

[Address of German Embassy/Consulate]

Dear sir or madam,

My name is [__________], I am [__] years old and of [________] nationality. I have a [___________] Degree from [__________] university/high school. I have been working/worked as a [_________] for [_] years.

I am writing this letter because I have been accepted into the [name of university/school] in Germany, and I am applying for a German Student Visa. The course lasts [__] semesters, from [____] to [____]. I applied to this university because [list all the reasons why you think the university is a good fit for you, how it would help you in your future career, etc] .

I want to study in Germany because I believe it is a wonderful country to study in, with one of the highest levels of education in the world. I also want to be more familiar with German culture and lifestyle, and I believe studying in Germany would give me the opportunity to do that.

If my visa application is successful, I will enter Germany on [date of entry], which will give me enough time to become settled before classes start.

I have found accommodation at [___________]. During my stay, the way I will finance myself is though [a scholarship/ the help of my parents/ personal savings/ working/ a sponsor/ etc].

Along with this cover letter, you will also find the following documents:

• My passport
• My birth certificate
• Two pictures
• Proof of health insurance
• Proof of sufficient financial requirements
• University acceptance letter
• My high school diploma
• My university diploma (if applicable)
• Language proficiency certificate

I hope my application will be enough for a favorable response, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

[Your name]

[Your contact information]

German Student Visa Cover Letter Example

For example, the German student visa cover letter for a student from Turkey who has been accepted in an MA of Architecture course in Germany and intends to finance her own stay may look like this:

May 20, 2019

Istanbul, Turkey

The Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Istanbul

Gümüşsuyu, İnönü Cd. No:10, 34437

Beyoğlu/İstanbul

My name is Aysel Polat, I am 24 years old and of Turkish nationality. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from Okan University in Istanbul, where I finished with a 3.8 GPA. In the past two years, I have worked as an interior and spatial designer for a local architectural company in Istambul.

I am writing this letter because I have been accepted into the Department of Architecture at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and I want to apply for a German Student Visa. The program I have been accepted in lasts for 4 semesters, from October 2019 to March 31, 2021. I want to study at TUM because I want to continue working as an interior and spatial designer, and have my own company one day, and since TUM is known as one of the best universities in Europe, I believe a degree from there will truly help me in my future career goals.

If my visa application is successful, I will enter Germany on September 10 , which will give me enough time to become settled before classes start in October.

During my stay, I will finance myself through my savings as well as from the help of my parents. You can find attached the bank statements which prove I have sufficient financial means to sustain myself financially.

Along with this Cover Letter, you will also find attached the following documents:

I hope my application will find a favorable response, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Aysel Polat

[Email address]

[Phone number]

Account Executive - Challenger Banks

Company Description

Visa is a world leader in payments and technology, with over 259 billion payments transactions flowing safely between consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and government entities in more than 200 countries and territories each year. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable, and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses, and economies to thrive while driven by a common purpose – to uplift everyone, everywhere by being the best way to pay and be paid.

Make an impact with a purpose-driven industry leader. Join us today and experience Life at Visa.

Job Description

This role involves actively handling the relationship with one of the largest German banking groups to market, sell and implement the full range of Visa products and services, managing client projects throughout the Visa organisation building strong partnerships with our Bank and providing customized solutions to jointly meet business objectives together.

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What we expect of you, day to day:

• Define sound strategy for the Bank to drive joint success, develop clear propositions for the full range of Visa products and services. Create concrete Account Plan in alignment with your lead to prioritise and deliver.
• Use a collaborative approach to understand our clients' needs and business impact and to recommend services and solutions to grow the business together.
• Build and oversee relationships across the entire client organisation, including senior management, service providers. Identify key stakeholders and stay close to identify opportunities and challenges early on.
• Contribute to the annual business and account plans for your Bank to achieve revenue and profitability targets.
• Collaborate and engage with colleagues across Visa (Sales, Product-Management, Marketing, Finance, Legal, Consultants, etc.) to deliver solutions as one team and to develop client business proactively.
• Take active part in negotiations, implement, and lead the customer contract processes.
• Show and improve excellent knowledge of the payment technology space, and especially of Visa products and services.
• Support to drive business, engage with the clients, work closely with peers and colleagues, deliver and celebrate successes with verve, energy and a sense of fun!

This is a hybrid position. Hybrid employees can alternate time between both remote and office. Employees in hybrid roles are expected to work from the office 2-3 set days a week (determined by leadership/site), with a general guidepost of being in the office 50% or more of the time based on business needs.

Qualifications

• Previous experience, passion, curiosity, and knowledge of retail banking and/or payment industry
• Strong credentials within a client facing role, along with a consistent record of achieving commercial targets
• Sales / Business Development / Relationship Management experience, with a strong background of forming relationships with clients and rapidly growing existing partnerships
• Commercial understanding and the ability to spot opportunities and proactively propose solutions
• Excellent interpersonal skills to collaborate closely with colleagues and persuade external stakeholders and decision makers at all levels of the business
• Proven influencing, selling and negotiation skills
• Excellent presentation and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Excellent ability to understand and communicate complex business information
• High levels of integrity and business ethics
• Fluent in German and English, both verbal and written. University Master´s degree or similar qualification or equivalent practical experience

Additional Information

Visa is an EEO Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Visa will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with EEOC guidelines and applicable local law.

Perks and Benefits

Health and wellness.

• Long-Term Disability
• HSA With Employer Contribution
• On-Site Gym
• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short-Term Disability
• Health Reimbursement Account
• Mental Health Benefits
• Virtual Fitness Classes

Parental Benefits

• Fertility Benefits
• Family Support Resources
• Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
• Non-Birth Parent or Paternity Leave

Work Flexibility

• Flexible Work Hours
• Remote Work Opportunities
• Hybrid Work Opportunities

Office Life and Perks

• Commuter Benefits Program
• Company Outings
• On-Site Cafeteria
• Holiday Events
• Happy Hours

Vacation and Time Off

• Paid Holidays
• Paid Vacation
• Volunteer Time Off
• Summer Fridays
• Leave of Absence

Financial and Retirement

• Relocation Assistance
• Performance Bonus
• Stock Purchase Program
• Company Equity
• 401(K) With Company Matching
• Financial Counseling

Professional Development

• Shadowing Opportunities
• Access to Online Courses
• Promote From Within
• Learning and Development Stipend
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Mentor Program
• Leadership Training Program
• Associate or Rotational Training Program
• Lunch and Learns
• Internship Program

Diversity and Inclusion

• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program
• Employee Resource Groups (ERG)

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