CV Austria: Guide and Template 2026
Austrian CV Conventions
The Austrian CV (Lebenslauf) closely follows German conventions but with distinct local nuances. A professional photo is expected and placed in the upper-right corner. Austrian CVs are one to two pages long and follow a structured, formal format. Academic titles are extremely important in Austria and should always be included with your name (e.g., Mag., Dr., Dipl.-Ing.). The tone should be formal and detail-oriented, reflecting the Austrian business culture that values precision, qualifications and thoroughness in professional documentation.
Format and Structure
An Austrian CV begins with Persoenliche Daten (personal data) including full name with academic titles, contact details, date of birth and nationality. This is followed by Berufserfahrung (professional experience), Ausbildung (education), Kenntnisse (skills) and Sprachen (languages). Work experience should be listed in reverse-chronological order with precise dates (MM/YYYY format), company name, location and detailed descriptions of responsibilities and achievements. Education entries should include the exact degree title and the name of the institution. A signature and date at the bottom are customary.
What to Include and What to Omit
Academic titles must be included and correctly formatted, as they carry significant social and professional weight in Austria. Include your date of birth and nationality, which remain standard on Austrian CVs. Language skills should be listed with CEFR levels, and IT skills should be detailed with specific software and proficiency. Military or civilian service (Praesenz- or Zivildienst) should be mentioned for male applicants. Do not include salary expectations on the CV. Hobbies may be briefly included if they demonstrate relevant soft skills. References can be listed or noted as available upon request.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Omitting academic titles is a serious faux pas in Austria. Always use the correct title format (Mag., Dr., DI) with your name throughout the application. Do not leave unexplained gaps in your employment history, as Austrian recruiters will question them. Avoid using an unprofessional photo or omitting one entirely. Do not use informal language, as Austrian business communication is notably formal. Ensure all dates are consistent and that your educational credentials are correctly named according to Austrian academic conventions. Proofread thoroughly for German language errors.
Tips for Standing Out
Emphasise any Austrian-specific qualifications or experience with Austrian companies and institutions. Highlight your language abilities, especially if you speak multiple languages beyond German and English. Academic achievements and continuing education are highly valued, so list relevant courses and certifications. Quantify your professional achievements with concrete numbers. If you have experience in Austrian-specific industries such as tourism, engineering or finance, tailor your CV accordingly. Networking through professional associations and industry events is valued in Austria and can complement a strong written application.