Should You Put a Photo on Your CV? (By Country)

Whether to put a photo on your CV depends mainly on where you are applying. In the UK, US, Canada, Ireland and Australia, photos are generally left off to avoid bias and keep the focus on skills. In some countries in continental Europe, the Middle East, Asia and parts of Africa, a professional photo is common or expected. Follow local norms and any instructions in the job advert.

Quick guide

Situation	Photo?
UK, US, Canada, Ireland, Australia	Usually no
Countries where photos are customary	Often yes
Acting, modelling, some presenting roles	Headshots are part of the application
Employer asks for one	Yes

If you include a photo

Recent and professional, head and shoulders.
Plain background, good light.
Small, top corner, not dominating the page.
Same photo as your LinkedIn for consistency.

If you leave it off

Your LinkedIn profile can still show a professional photo. See LinkedIn profile tips.

See how to write a CV for what to include instead.

Other personal details to check

Photos are one of several personal details whose norms vary by country:

Detail	Common in many English-speaking markets	Check local norms elsewhere
Photo	Usually omitted	Often included
Date of birth	Usually omitted	Sometimes included
Nationality and visa status	Include only if relevant to work eligibility	Sometimes included
Marital status	Omitted	Occasionally included
Full address	City or region is enough	Varies

Industries where appearance is part of the job

Acting, modelling and some presenting roles use headshots or portfolios as part of the application. Even then, the headshot is usually a separate file rather than printed on the CV.

If in doubt

Follow the job advert, look at the employer's careers page, or ask a recruiter who works in that country. When there is no clear guidance in the UK or US, leave the photo off.

Frequently asked questions

Should I put a photo on my CV in the UK or US?

Usually no. Photos are uncommon and can raise bias concerns, so most employers prefer CVs without them.

Where are CV photos common?

Some countries in continental Europe, the Middle East, Asia and parts of Africa often expect photos. Check local norms for the role.

What photo should I use if needed?

A recent, professional head-and-shoulders photo with a plain background and neutral expression.