An anti-fuse element that includes a capacitance unit having an insulation layer and at least a pair of electrode layers formed on upper and lower surfaces of the insulation layer. The capacitance unit has a protection function against electrostatic discharge. Because the capacitance unit has a protection function against electrostatic discharge, an anti-fuse element can be provided which is less likely to cause insulation breakdown due to electrostatic discharge at the time of, for example, mounting a component.