How to Make a Good CV for Jobs Abroad
A practical CV guide for Sri Lankans applying for jobs abroad — what to include, how to format it, common mistakes to avoid, and a simple structure that works for overseas employers.
A practical CV guide for Sri Lankans applying for jobs abroad — what to include, how to format it, common mistakes to avoid, and a simple structure that works for overseas employers.
When you apply for a job abroad — whether nursing in Malta, engineering in Oman or caregiving in Romania — your CV is the first thing a foreign employer sees. Unlike Sri Lanka, where referrals carry a lot of weight, overseas recruitment is highly CV-driven. A clear, well-structured CV gets you shortlisted. A messy one does not, no matter how good your experience is.
A strong CV for overseas jobs should have the following sections in this order:
Your full name, phone number (with +94 country code), email address and your city in Sri Lanka. You do not need to include your full address, religion, age or a photo unless the employer specifically asks. Some Middle Eastern employers do request a photo — in that case use a professional headshot with a plain background.
A short paragraph at the top summarising who you are, your years of experience and what you are looking for. Example: "Registered Nurse with 5 years of experience in surgical wards at a government hospital in Sri Lanka. Seeking an opportunity to advance my career internationally with strong clinical skills and a track record in patient care."
List your jobs in reverse chronological order (most recent first). For each role include: job title, employer name, location, dates (Month Year – Month Year or Present), and 3–5 bullet points describing what you did and achieved. Use action verbs: managed, coordinated, performed, supervised, trained, reduced, improved.
List your qualifications in reverse order. Include the qualification name, institution, and year of completion. For professional registrations (SLMC, SLNC, etc.) list these clearly — overseas employers consider them critical.
A short list of relevant skills: clinical or technical skills, software, languages, licences or certifications. Keep it relevant to the job you are applying for.
Write "References available on request." You do not need to list referees on the CV itself.
For most WAAZ job applications, you will also need a colour passport scan, a recent full photo and copies of your experience letters and education certificates. Check the specific job listing for the exact document list.
Browse current job vacancies on our site or book a free consultation with WAAZ. Once you have shortlisted a role, we will guide you through the full application and interview process.
WAAZ is a career consultancy. Our mission is to guide people on their career aspirations. We help Job seekers and students find valuable career pathways across the globe.
