What should I write in the email when sending my application?

The accompanying email is short — maximum 3 sentences. It is not a second cover letter. Structure: (1) Subject line: 'Application for [position] - [Your name]' — clear and searchable. (2) Salutation (recruiter's name if known). (3) One sentence of reference: 'Please find attached my application documents for the position of [role] (reference no. if applicable).' (4) One sentence of interest: 'I look forward to a conversation.' (5) Closing formula + name + contact details. BDSG §26: Application documents by email should be encrypted or sent as a password-protected PDF if they contain sensitive data — in practice rarely observed. Caveat: Some portals have no email cover letter field — then the accompanying email is unnecessary.