A method for manufacturing a light-emitting element includes: preparing a semiconductor structure body that includes: an n-side layer, a p-side layer, and an active layer positioned between the n-side layer and the p-side layer, where the n-side layer includes a plurality of first regions arranged in a first direction in a top view, the first regions exposed from the active layer and the p-side layer; forming a first insulating film on the p-side layer, between the first regions; forming a second insulating film to continuously cover the first regions, the p-side layer, and the first insulating film; forming an n-side opening in the second insulating film by removing the second insulating film on the first regions and on the first insulating film; and forming an n-side electrode in the n-side opening, the n-side electrode contacting the first regions and the first insulating film.