The process for claiming your tax-free refund in Japan depends on exactly when you are visiting. Japan is switching over to a completely new system.
Here is how to get your tax-free refund depending on your travel dates.
For travel up to October 31, 2026: Instant store discounts
Until the end of October, you get your tax discount instantly while you are still inside the shop. You do not have to wait until you get to the airport to get your money back.
- Look for the sign: Shop at stores that display the official “Japan Tax-Free Shop” logo. You must spend at least ¥5,000 (before tax) in that specific store on the same day to qualify.
- Show your passport: When you are ready to pay, tell the cashier you want to shop tax-free. Show them your physical passport. They need to see your temporary visitor visa stamp.
- Pay the lower price: The store will either deduct the 8% to 10% consumption tax directly at the cash register, or they will have you pay full price and send you to a special in-store tax refund desk to hand you your cash back right away.
- Scan at the airport: The store will link the purchase to your passport electronically. When you leave Japan, you simply scan your passport at a customs kiosk before you go through security.
For travel starting November 1, 2026: The new airport refund system
Starting November 1, Japan is switching to a “pay first, get refunded at the airport” system to match how European countries do it.
- Pay full price at the store: You still need to spend a minimum of ¥5,000 and show your passport at the register. However, you will pay the full, tax-included price on your card or in cash. The store will log your purchase digitally into the customs network. Keep all your receipts!
- Scan at the airport kiosk: When it is time to fly home, go to the tax-free kiosk or customs desk at the airport before you check your luggage. Scan your passport at the machine.
- Show your items if asked: The machine will give you a green or red screen. If it turns red, a customs officer needs to visually check your items. Keep your purchases in your carry-on or do this step before dropping your big suitcases at the airline check-in counter.
- Receive your refund: Once customs clears you, your tax money will be refunded back to your credit card, bank account, or digital app.
Two critical rules you must follow
- Get a physical passport entry stamp: If you use the automated gates when you first land at immigration in Japan, your passport will not get a sticker or stamp. You must turn around and ask an immigration officer for a physical landing stamp. Many stores cannot process your tax-free paperwork without looking at that physical stamp.
- Do not open sealed bags (Old System Only): If you buy items under the old system (before November), the store will seal your snacks or cosmetics in a plastic bag. You are legally not allowed to open or consume these items while you are still inside Japan. Under the new system starting in November, this special plastic packaging rule is being eliminated, but you still cannot consume the items until you leave the country.
