There are provided a light-receiving element for receiving light reflected from an optical recording medium, an optical head using the element, and an optical recording/reproducing apparatus using the element. In particular, the light-receiving element can be manufactured at low cost and in a simple manner and is configured to receive light from a short-wavelength laser source (having a wavelength of 402 nm to 413 nm). The light-receiving element includes a silicon substrate in which a light-receiving portion is formed; a circuit board for mounting the silicon substrate; at least one or more wires for electrically connecting the silicon substrate and the circuit board; a cover layer for covering the wires; and an exposed portion for exposing the light-receiving portion outside.