How to Write a CV for Jobs in France (2026): One Page, 'Accroche' and Photo Rules

October 27, 20261 min read

The French CV in practice: one page, the target job title as a headline, a short 'accroche', a sober layout, optional photo and no age or marital status.

French recruiters value concise, well-structured CVs. A long, decorative document or one copied from another country's format can work against you.

One page and a clear headline

  • One page for most profiles; two only for long senior careers.
  • Use the target job title as the CV's headline — not the word 'CV'.
  • A 2–3 line 'accroche' (profile) under the headline.

Photo and personal details

A photo is optional; the Labour Code forbids employers from requiring one unless appearance is a genuine job requirement. Leave out age and marital status — they are among the grounds of discrimination prohibited in hiring.

Order and style

Put experience first if you have it, then education, skills and languages. Keep the style sober; creative layouts are only for creative jobs. Dates usually appear as MM/YYYY.

Choose "France" as the target country and CV Analyz rewrites your CV into a one-page French-style CV.

Improve your CV now

Frequently asked questions

Should I write my CV in French?

Yes for French companies, unless the advert is in English.

Is a cover letter still expected?

Often yes (lettre de motivation), especially for traditional employers.

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