In Germany, an application photo is still customary and expected by most employers — unlike in the USA, UK or Canada. The Anti-Discrimination Act (AGG §1) prohibits discrimination based on appearance, age or origin. Nevertheless, the photo is not prohibited in Germany and belongs in most applications according to common practice. Caveat: Some progressive companies and corporations dispense with photos in the application process to reduce bias (anonymised applications). For international applications (USA, UK, Scandinavia): No photo. Recommendation for Germany: Professional photo on a white or grey background, business attire, current (max. 2 years old). A bad photo does more harm than no photo.
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