01. Forgetting to register a refund destination (1)
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.
To receive a consumption tax refund on goods bought at a tax-free shop, you need to register a refund destination.
Even if you get a GREEN result at the customs confirmation when you leave Japan, you cannot receive the refund unless a refund destination is registered.
However, if you left Japan after a GREEN result, you may still be able to receive the refund by registering a refund destination after departure.
Under the tax-free system, the customs confirmation must be done when you leave Japan within 90 days of the purchase date. The deadline for registering a refund destination, on the other hand, differs by tax-free shop and refund operator.
For example, with a service that lets you register within 180 days of purchase, you may receive the refund by completing the customs confirmation and leaving Japan within 90 days, and then registering a refund destination within 180 days.
If you notice after departure that you have not registered a refund destination, check your receipt and contact the refund operator.
* Whether you can register after departure, and the deadline, depend on the refund service you used. To be sure of your refund, complete the registration before you leave Japan.
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.