06. Checking in your baggage before the customs confirmation
Note: Japan's refund-based Tax-Free system (pay the tax-inclusive price first, then receive a refund after customs confirmation) starts on November 1, 2026. Until October 31, 2026, the current Tax-Free system (tax-excluded price at the register) continues. The answers below describe the system from November 1, 2026 unless stated otherwise.
Under Japan’s tax-free system, you must have all the goods you bought tax-free with you when you go through the customs confirmation at departure.
This also applies when you complete the customs confirmation with a kiosk or Visit Japan Web.
If the customs confirmation gives a RED result, you must show the goods you bought to a customs officer.
So if you check in a suitcase containing tax-free goods with the airline before the customs confirmation, you cannot show the goods and may not receive your refund.
Baggage that has been checked in cannot be retrieved for the tax-free procedure.
Keep all your tax-free goods with you, and complete the customs confirmation before checking your baggage in with the airline.
This page is general reference information based on Japan's refund-based Tax-Free system starting November 1, 2026. Procedures and rules may differ by store, refund provider, airport or port, and may change. Please check the latest information with the Japanese government or the store where you shop.