"Why do I need a photo on my resume to apply for a job in Japan?," 04 September 2024

[Unofficial description by Business & Human Rights Resource Centre]

It is common practice in Japan to have photos of job applicants on their CVs, while many countries prefer not to have them to avoid discrimination claims.

Although Japan prohibits discrimination in hiring processes based on race, beliefs, gender, class or family background, guidelines do not address biases based on candidates’ appearance nor do they explain why photos are required on resumes.

According to a survey, 68% of recruiters acknowledge the existence of appearance-based hiring.

Last year, a petition claiming that current hiring customs impose gender binarism and sexism was signed by 33,000 people and submitted to the education ministry.