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Applying in Liechtenstein: How to Make Your Dossier Stand Out
6 min read · Published 28 June 2026 · Updated 18 September 2026
An application in Liechtenstein follows Swiss conventions: a complete dossier, Swiss spelling (ss instead of ß), a restrained, factual tone — and a CV without signature, place or date. Following these details signals familiarity with the local market and sets you apart. This guide shows the structure and the pitfalls. (Note: these conventions apply to German-language applications, which are the norm here.)
What belongs in a complete dossier?
Unlike in Germany, where an email and CV often suffice at first, employers in Liechtenstein and Switzerland expect complete documents from the outset:
vacancies were reported to AMS FL in January 2026 — the choice is wide, the formal expectations stay the same.
AMS FL / Office of Statistics Liechtenstein- Cover letter (motivation letter)
- CV, reverse-chronological, 2–3 pages
- Employer references as evidence of the listed positions
- Diplomas and certificates; depending on the profession, recognition of the qualification may be required
How do I structure the CV correctly?
The CV is written in reverse-chronological order (most recent first). Important Swiss/Liechtenstein specifics:
- No signature, no place, no date at the end of the CV.
- Use academic titles sparingly — a “Dr.” is fine, but “MA” or “Dipl.-Ing.” before the name come across as vain.
- References are welcome and are often named directly (with the consent of those listed).
- State language skills clearly, with level.
- A professional, recent photo is customary.
Which linguistic details are decisive?
Here small things decide the first impression:
- No “ß”: Swiss German uses “ss” (e.g. “Grüsse”, not “Grüße”). Many employers read a consistent “ß” as ignorance of local conventions.
- No comma after the salutation; the body text still begins with a capital letter.
- “Freundliche Grüsse” instead of “Mit freundlichen Grüssen” or “Hochachtungsvoll”.
- Personal salutation: research the contact person instead of “Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren” (Dear Sir or Madam).
Which tone works?
Understatement is valued in Liechtenstein and Switzerland. Don't lay it on too thick: instead of “excellent knowledge of X”, back up your strength with a concrete example. The cover letter may even use the subjunctive (“… I could contribute well”) — what counts as insecure in Germany reads here as pleasant restraint. As a commuter, briefly mention your willingness to commute and your place of residence in the region.
Conclusion
unemployment rate in February 2026 (434 registered unemployed) — one of the lowest in Europe.
AMS FL / Office of Statistics LiechtensteinA successful application in Liechtenstein is complete, error-free, factual and written in Swiss spelling. The form signals respect for the local culture — and gives you an edge. For how the labour market works overall, see the “Working in Liechtenstein” guide. You can find matching open positions on joblie.li — for example in Vaduz, Schaan or Triesen.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the CV signed in Liechtenstein?
- No. In Liechtenstein and Switzerland the CV is usually not signed and contains neither place nor date.
- May I use the “ß”?
- No, use “ss” throughout (e.g. “Grüsse”, “gross”). The “ß” does not exist in Swiss spelling and can stand out negatively.
- How long should the CV be?
- Ideally two to three pages, clearly structured and easy to scan, with a professional photo and language skills stated.
- Are references important?
- Yes. In Liechtenstein and Switzerland references are valued and are often named directly in the dossier — with the consent of the people listed.
Sources
Looking for a job in Liechtenstein?
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