The free Swiss CV checklist

Before you send a single application in Switzerland, run through this list. It's everything Swiss recruiters expect — print it, tick it off, and you'll look local.

Format

  • ☐ Two pages (one page only if you're a graduate)
  • ☐ Clean, single-column or two-column layout, consistent fonts
  • ☐ Professional photo, top corner, business attire
  • ☐ Saved as PDF, named clearly (e.g. CV_Firstname_Lastname.pdf)

Personal details

  • ☐ Full name, address, phone, email
  • ☐ Date of birth and nationality
  • ☐ Work-permit status (EU/EFTA, B, C permit…)
  • ☐ Place of origin (Heimatort) if Swiss

Content

  • ☐ Short profile (2–3 lines) tailored to the role
  • ☐ Work experience, reverse-chronological, with measurable results
  • ☐ Education with institutions and dates
  • ☐ Languages rated honestly (A1–C2)
  • ☐ Skills, IT, certifications
  • ☐ No gaps left unexplained

The full dossier

  • ☐ Cover letter (Motivationsschreiben), tailored to the job
  • ☐ CV (this checklist!)
  • ☐ Scanned copies of diplomas
  • ☐ Scanned copies of work references (Arbeitszeugnisse)
  • ☐ Everything in the posting's required language

Don't build it from scratch

HelvetiaCV bakes every item on this list into ready-made Swiss templates — DE/EN/FR/IT. Pay once, no subscription.

Create my Swiss CV

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