Writing a CV or resume for jobs abroad

When you apply for jobs in another country, you cannot assume the resume or CV that works at home will be effective. Employers around the world have different expectations for what they want to see in an application. What is standard in one place, such as including a photograph, might be inappropriate in another. Creating a successful application means learning about these local conventions and adapting your document accordingly.

This guide covers the common ways that resumes and CVs differ internationally, helping you prepare an application that meets the expectations of employers abroad.

Resume or curriculum vitae?

The terms “resume” and “curriculum vitae” (CV) are sometimes used interchangeably, but they can refer to different types of documents. It is useful to understand the traditional distinction, as employers in some countries will expect one or the other.

A resume is typically a short, concise summary of your skills, experience, and education. The goal is to present the most relevant information for a specific job, usually in one or two pages. This format is standard in the United States and Canada.

A CV is often a more detailed and comprehensive document. It can be several pages long and provides a full history of your academic and professional life. CVs are common in academia, medicine, and research globally. They are also the standard format for most job applications in many parts of Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

If a job posting does not specify which to submit, try to find out the local standard for your industry. Look at job search advice for that country or check professional networking sites to see how people with similar roles present their experience.

Personal details: what to include and what to leave out

One of the most significant differences in international resumes is the amount of personal information expected. What you include, or leave out, can have a big impact on your application.

Photograph

In countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia, including a photograph on your resume is strongly discouraged. Anti-discrimination laws are strict, and employers prefer applications that do not reveal a candidate’s age, race, or gender to avoid potential bias.

However, in many parts of continental Europe, Asia, and South America, a professional headshot is a standard and expected part of a CV. Employers see it as a way to connect a face to the application. If you apply in a country where photos are common, make sure it is a high-quality, professional picture. You should be dressed appropriately for your industry, with a neutral background.

Personal information

The personal data you are expected to provide also varies. Most resumes, regardless of country, will include your name, phone number, email address, and general location (city and country).

Beyond that, requirements diverge:

• Date of birth and age: In regions with strong age discrimination laws, like North America and the UK, you should never include your date of birth. In other countries, it may be a standard expectation.
• Marital status and family: In some countries, application norms may include asking for your marital status or even the number of children you have. This practice is uncommon and often restricted by anti-discrimination laws in many Western countries.
• Nationality and visa status: If you are applying from abroad, it is often helpful to state your nationality and your legal right to work in the country, for example, if you hold a specific visa or are a citizen. This clarifies your eligibility upfront. Understanding how a working holiday visa works can help you describe your status accurately.

Always research the local norms. If you are uncomfortable providing certain information, you may choose to leave it off, but be aware that it might make your application seem incomplete to a local hiring manager.

Formatting and structure

While the basic sections of a resume are universal (contact information, experience, education, skills), the way they are presented can change. Pay attention to length, layout, and the order of information.

Length

In the United States, a one-page resume is strongly preferred for most professionals, with two pages being the maximum for those with extensive experience. In contrast, two-page CVs are standard in the UK, Australia, and much of Europe. For academic or senior-level positions in some regions, a CV can be even longer.

Never pad your resume to make it longer. The key is to be as concise as possible while meeting local expectations for detail.

Chronological or functional?

The reverse chronological format, where you list your work experience from most recent to oldest, is the most common and widely accepted structure globally. It is easy for recruiters to scan and shows a clear career progression.

A functional resume, which focuses on skills rather than work history, is less common and can sometimes be viewed with suspicion. It is best to stick to the reverse chronological format unless you have a very specific reason not to, such as a major career change.

Content and tone

What you write is just as important as how you format it. The language, tone, and level of detail can all be adjusted for an international audience.

Language and vocabulary

If you are applying for a job in a country where English is not the first language, the job posting will usually state what language your application should be in. Even when applying in English, remember to adjust your spelling and vocabulary. Use US English or British English as appropriate for the location.

Avoid using jargon, acronyms, or idioms that may not be understood by an international reader. Be clear and direct in your descriptions.

Writing about achievements

In cultures that value individualism, such as in the United States, resumes are often written with a strong, assertive tone. It is common to use action verbs and data to highlight personal accomplishments.

In other cultures, particularly in some parts of Asia, a more modest tone that emphasizes teamwork and collective responsibility may be better received. Highlighting your role as part of a successful team can be more effective than focusing solely on your individual contributions.

References

The practice for including references also varies. In some countries, it is standard to list your references directly on the CV. In others, particularly the US and UK, you would instead write “References available upon request.” This saves space and protects the privacy of your contacts. Check the local convention before adding a list of names and contact details to your document.

How to adapt your resume: a checklist

Use these steps to tailor your existing resume or CV for an international job application.

1. Research the country’s standards: Before you start, search for information on CV or resume expectations in your target country and industry. This is a key part of how to choose a country for a job abroad. Look for advice from local career services or university websites.
2. Choose between a resume and a CV: Decide if a short, targeted resume or a longer, more comprehensive CV is appropriate.
3. Decide on personal details: Determine if you need to include a photograph, your date of birth, or other personal information based on local norms.
4. Adjust the format and length: Reformat your document to the expected page length. Ensure the layout is clean and professional. A simple, easy-to-read design is always a safe choice.
5. Tailor the content: Rewrite your experience and skills sections. Use a tone that aligns with the local business culture. Quantify your achievements with numbers where possible, as data is universally understood.
6. Localize the language: Check for spelling (e.g., “organize” vs. “organise”) and terminology. Have a native speaker review your document if possible to catch any errors or phrasing that sounds unnatural.
7. Clarify your legal status: If you are not a citizen, briefly and clearly state your eligibility to work in the country, mentioning the type of visa you have or are applying for.
8. Proofread carefully: A mistake-free document shows professionalism and attention to detail. Read it over several times and consider using a grammar and spell-check tool set to the correct regional English.

Check before you go

Rules and cultural norms for job applications differ by country and can change. Always verify information with reliable, local sources before sending your application.

• Official government resources for newcomers: National or regional government websites for new immigrants often provide official guidance on job searching, including resume standards.
• University career services in the destination country: Many universities publish free guides on CV writing for their students, which can offer excellent insight into local expectations.
• A licensed immigration lawyer or registered migration adviser: They can confirm the correct way to state your visa status or right to work on an application.
• Industry-specific professional associations: Organizations in your field within the target country can provide advice on what employers in your sector look for.