08. Arriving late at the port or airport
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 go through the customs confirmation at the airport or port when you leave Japan.
If you arrive late at the airport or port and leave Japan without completing the customs confirmation, you cannot receive the consumption tax refund.
The customs confirmation is done at a tax refund kiosk. A GREEN result completes the procedure, but a RED result requires a customs officer to check the goods you bought.
So the procedure at the kiosk may not finish right away. The customs inspection may take time, and the area may be crowded.
The customs confirmation must also be completed before you check your baggage in with the airline. Checked baggage cannot be retrieved for the tax-free procedure.
To be sure you can complete the tax-free procedure, arrive at the airport or port with plenty of time to spare.
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.