How to Apply for Jobs in Japan (2026): Rirekisho and Shokumu Keirekisho
Japanese applications use two documents: the standard rirekisho with a photo and the 職務経歴書 career history. Here is what each contains and how to write them.
Japan has the most standardised application documents in this guide. Traditional companies expect two documents; international firms and startups often accept an English CV.
Rirekisho (履歴書)
A fixed-format A4 form (JIS standard) with personal details, education, work history and a photo of about 3×4 cm. Some modern companies state 'no photo necessary' in their adverts.
Shokumu keirekisho (職務経歴書)
The career history: a 1–2 page document with a short summary (職務要約), then each role's duties and results with numbers, in a polite, formal tone. This is the document CV Analyz writes for you.
Choose "Japan" as the target country and CV Analyz writes your career history in a formal Japanese style.
Improve your CV nowFrequently asked questions
Do I need a photo?
For the rirekisho at traditional companies, usually yes; many international firms don't require one.