Japan to Change Tax-Free Shopping to a Refund System in November 2026
From November 1, 2026, eligible visitors will generally pay Japan's 10% consumption tax when shopping and receive a refund after authorities confirm that the purchased goods are leaving Japan. The reform also simplifies several product and packaging rules.
Japan is preparing a major change to its tax-free shopping system for international visitors. The new refund-based system is scheduled to begin on November 1, 2026.
Under the current system, eligible short-term visitors can often have the 10% consumption tax removed at the shop. Under the new system, shoppers will generally pay the tax first. A refund will be issued only after the purchased goods have been confirmed as leaving Japan.
Visitors should keep their receipts and be prepared to complete the required departure procedures. A refund may be refused if the goods cannot be verified, are not being taken out of Japan or appear to have been resold domestically.
The reform is also expected to remove the distinction between general goods and consumables. The current purchase limit for consumables and special packaging requirements are scheduled to end.
This is not an additional tourist discount. It changes when and how eligible visitors receive the existing consumption-tax exemption. Travellers visiting Japan before November 1, 2026 should continue to follow the current rules displayed by registered tax-free shops.
Under the current system, eligible short-term visitors can often have the 10% consumption tax removed at the shop. Under the new system, shoppers will generally pay the tax first. A refund will be issued only after the purchased goods have been confirmed as leaving Japan.
Visitors should keep their receipts and be prepared to complete the required departure procedures. A refund may be refused if the goods cannot be verified, are not being taken out of Japan or appear to have been resold domestically.
The reform is also expected to remove the distinction between general goods and consumables. The current purchase limit for consumables and special packaging requirements are scheduled to end.
This is not an additional tourist discount. It changes when and how eligible visitors receive the existing consumption-tax exemption. Travellers visiting Japan before November 1, 2026 should continue to follow the current rules displayed by registered tax-free shops.
Reference:
The Economic Times
Back to latest news