Tax-free refund in Japan: common questions
Short answers to what travelers ask about the refund method from 1 November 2026, each tied to an official source.
Is tax-free shopping in Japan ending?
No. The method changes. Under the old system the shop removed the tax at the register. From 1 November 2026 you pay the full price and get the tax back after Customs confirms your goods when you leave.[source]
I bought something before 1 November. Which rules apply?
The refund method applies to sales from 1 November 2026.[source] Earlier purchases follow the rules in force when you bought them, which this site does not cover. Ask the shop.
Can I pack tax-free goods in my suitcase?
Yes, but only after the customs step. You must scan your passport with all the goods on you before you check bags.[source]
What if I eat or use some of what I bought?
Can I use luggage delivery or post my shopping home?
Not for tax-free goods under the refund method. Goods you post yourself cannot be confirmed, even with a postal receipt, and goods sent ahead are not with you at the terminal.[source] Send other luggage ahead and keep the tax-free goods with you.
My purchase is too big to carry. What are my options?
Some shops arrange shipping through a licensed freight forwarder at the register, which is a separate export exemption.[source] Ask the shop before you pay.
How and when do I get the money?
The shop, or a refund provider it uses, pays after Customs confirms the goods. The law does not fix the method. Bank transfer, card transfer, app transfer and cash at the airport are given as examples.[source] Ask at the register how it works at that shop.
Do I have to register on a website or scan a QR code?
We could not find an official statement of a national registration step for travelers. The Tourism Agency says the shop explains refund-method registration at the time of purchase.[source] Follow the shop's instructions.
Does the refund have fees?
The Tax Agency and Tourism Agency pages we read do not say whether refund providers deduct fees. The law leaves the method to the shop.[source] Ask before you buy.
Do I need my receipts at the airport?
You need your passport and the goods. At the inspection counter, officers may also ask to see the receipts, so keep them with the goods.[source]
What if I lost my passport and bought on two passports?
Scan the new passport at the terminal and tell a customs officer at the counter that you also bought with the old one.[source]
Does the airport matter if I connect through another Japanese airport?
Yes. Do the step at the airport where you leave Japan for good, which is the international departure airport.[source]
Does this site store my answers?
No. The checker runs in your browser. See the privacy page.
Not answered here? Read how the refund works or the full list of rules and sources. For your own purchase, the shop and the customs terminal have the final say.