According to one embodiment, a magnetoresistive effect element includes: a first magnetic layer; a nonmagnetic layer provided on the first magnetic layer; a second magnetic layer provided on the nonmagnetic layer; a first insulating layer provided at least on a side surface of the second magnetic layer; a second insulating layer covering at least a part of the first insulating layer; a conductive layer provided between the first insulating layer and the second insulating layer; and a first electrode including a first portion on the second magnetic layer and a second portion on a side surface of the second insulating layer. A height of a lower surface of the second portion is equal to or less than a height of an upper surface of the conductive layer.