Visitors to Japan now pay tax at shops and claim it back on departure

From 1 November 2026, visitors to Japan no longer get an instant tax exemption at the shop counter. They now pay the full tax-inclusive price, then claim the consumption tax back at the airport or seaport before departure.

To qualify, a single day's purchase at one participating store must reach at least US$32 before tax, as reported on 2 Nov 2026. Customs confirmation must be completed within 90 days of the purchase, and the goods must leave Japan with you. Items you use during your stay do not count.

Japan's standard consumption tax is 10%, with a reduced rate of 8% on certain products. The refund, handled by the retailer or its refund service rather than by customs, depends on the tax rate and the purchase value. At three major airports, Narita, Haneda and Kansai, plus four others, a Visit Japan Web facility can help with part of the process.

What this means for you

Set aside extra time at the airport and keep your purchases in hand luggage, since customs confirmation must happen before you check in bags holding tax-eligible items.

• Complete customs confirmation before checking in luggage containing tax-eligible goods.
• Register a refund method with the retailer or its refund service when you shop.
• Keep receipts and your passport ready at the designated tax-eligible processing terminal.