How to write a CV for Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia

In the Maghreb, a CV often has to move between three languages. French remains a common business language in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia, Arabic is used across the public sector, and English is increasingly requested for technology, outsourcing and multinational roles. Libya and Mauritania have habits of their own: Arabic is more common in Libya, while Mauritania uses both Arabic and French.

Which language to use

Follow the language of the job posting. Many private employers expect French; an Arabic CV suits public institutions and Arabic-first companies; an English CV is the norm for international companies and remote roles. Many candidates keep two versions.

Diplomas, and how to explain them

Local qualifications — the baccalauréat, the licence, the master, two-year technical diplomas such as the BTS or DUT, and engineering diplomas — are well understood at home, but an employer abroad may not know them. In an English CV, add the equivalent in brackets, for example "Licence (three-year bachelor's degree)".

Length and layout

One page is usual for students and early-career candidates, in line with the French tradition; experienced candidates can use two. Keep the layout clean and every section clearly titled.

Photo and personal details

• A photo is common on CVs in the Maghreb, but optional. If you include one, use a professional headshot.
• Date of birth and nationality appear on many local CVs; both are optional, especially for international employers.
• Give your city, and say whether you are willing to relocate if the job is in another city or country.

Give languages their own section

Employers in the region often value candidates who work in several languages. List Arabic, French, English and any other language with an honest level — for example a CEFR level such as B2 or C1 if you have taken a test.

Doing it in Tabhar

• Build your Arabic and English versions. Each CV holds one language, so duplicate it or translate it with AI into a new copy.
• Tabhar does not write CVs in French yet. If an employer asks for French, prepare that version separately and keep its facts identical.
• Add a Languages section with your level in each language.
• Pick the date format that suits the employer — the editor changes it across the whole CV.

Before you send it

• The CV is in the language of the job posting.
• Local diplomas have an equivalent in brackets when you apply abroad.
• Your languages show an honest level.
• Dates use one format throughout.

Hiring practices differ between employers and change over time. When a job posting gives instructions, follow them.