Resume Format for Japan 2026: Rirekisho, Shokumu Keirekisho & International Roles
Japan's job market runs on a document format genuinely unlike anything in the US, UK, or European markets: the rirekisho, a standardized, often JIS-format resume traditionally used for domestic hiring — very different from the flexible, one-page resume expected internationally.
The rirekisho follows a fixed, standardized structure
Unlike a US or European resume, the rirekisho follows a largely fixed template — personal details, education and work history in chronological order, and traditionally a photo — used across most domestic Japanese hiring, especially for new graduates and traditional companies.
The shokumu keirekisho adds the detail the rirekisho leaves out
For experienced/mid-career hiring specifically, Japanese employers commonly expect a second document alongside the rirekisho — the shokumu keirekisho — a more detailed, resume-like account of your work history, skills, and achievements, closer in spirit to a Western resume.
International and foreign-company roles often expect a Western-style resume instead
If you're applying to an international company, a foreign-owned firm operating in Japan, or a remote role with an overseas employer, a standard English-language resume — one page, quantified, ATS-friendly — is generally expected instead of the rirekisho. Confirm which format the specific employer wants before assuming.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between a rirekisho and a shokumu keirekisho?
The rirekisho is a standardized personal-details-and-history document, traditionally used across Japanese hiring. The shokumu keirekisho is a more detailed account of work experience and achievements, typically expected alongside it for experienced/mid-career candidates.
Do I need a rirekisho for an international company in Japan?
Not usually — international companies and foreign employers operating in Japan often expect a standard English-language resume instead. It's worth confirming which format a specific employer wants rather than assuming.