Handwritten signature on the cover letter — still necessary?

For digital applications via online portals or by email: No — technically not possible or sensible. For PDF applications by email: Optional, does no harm, appears more personal to some employers. Exception: The public sector in Germany — many positions still require an original signature on the cover letter when documents are submitted by post. The Nachweisgesetz (NachweisG §2) regulates written form requirements in the employment relationship, not for applications. According to BA posting guidelines for public positions: Always pay attention to the specific format requirements. Recommendation for 2026: Scanned signature in PDF applications — yes if available, no if not — both are acceptable.