MICE News

Changes to Japan’s Tax-Free Shopping Procedure from

1 November 2026!

Japan’s tax-free shopping procedure will change for purchases made on or after 1 November 2026.

Until 31 October 2026, eligible international visitors can purchase goods tax-free at participating stores by presenting the required documents, including their passport. This means that consumption tax is exempted at the point of purchase.

From 1 November 2026, Japan will introduce a new Refund Method. Eligible visitors will still need to present the required documents, including their passport, when making a purchase at a tax-free shop. However, they will pay the tax-inclusive price at the store. The amount equivalent to consumption tax will then be refunded after customs confirms, at departure, that the purchased goods are being taken out of Japan.

The customs procedure must be completed within 90 days of the purchase date. Travelers should complete the procedure in the international departure lobby, before checking in any luggage that contains tax-free purchases. At Kansai International Airport, travelers may also use Visit Japan Web in designated areas before the security checkpoint, subject to current airport guidance. Visit Japan Web

For international delegates and participants returning home after a meeting, incentive trip, conference or exhibition in Osaka, allowing sufficient time at the airport or seaport will be particularly important.

Procedure at Departure

①　Bring your passport and all tax-free purchases to the tax-free procedure terminal before checking in your luggage.

②　Present your passport at the terminal, or use Visit Japan Web where available. Visit Japan Web

③　If the result is Green, the procedure is complete.

④　If the result is Red, bring the relevant purchases to the designated customs inspection area.

⑤　Receive the refund through the tax-free shop or its appointed refund service provider.

Travelers should keep their passport, receipts and tax-free goods together until departure. All items included in a single purchase transaction must be available for inspection; if one item is missing, the goods associated with that receipt will not be eligible for a refund. Goods that have been consumed or used in Japan, including food, beverages and cosmetics, are also not eligible for a refund.

To avoid delays, please do not check in luggage containing tax-free purchases before completing the procedure, and arrive at the airport or seaport with sufficient time before boarding.

For full details on eligible purchasers, required documents, customs procedures and refund arrangements, please refer to the official Japan Tax-Free Shop – Refund Method. The process and requirements are based on Japan Tourism Agency guidance.

About Refund Method

• Japan Tax-Free Shop – Refund Method