Tax-Free Eligibility
Eligible Foreign Non-Residents
The following foreign nationals who are non-residents are eligible for tax-free shopping.
In principle, they must be able to confirm that they have been in Japan for less than six months after entry (excluding those with Diplomat or Official status and U.S. Forces personnel, etc.).
| Status of Residence, etc. | Documents to Present |
|---|---|
| Temporary Visitor | Passport |
| Official | Passport |
| Landing Permission, etc. | Documents to Present |
| Permission for Landing at a Port of Call | Passport |
| Permission for Landing in Transit | Passport |
| U.S. Forces personnel, etc. (Persons entering Japan under the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement) | Passport |
| Landing Permission for Cruise Ship Tourists | Passport* and Landing Permission for Cruise Ship Tourists |
| Landing Permission for Crew Members | Passport and Landing Permission for Crew Members |
| Permission for Emergency Landing | Passport and Permission for Emergency Landing |
| Landing Permission Due to Distress | Passport and Landing Permission Due to Distress |
* For persons staying in Japan under Landing Permission for Cruise Ship Tourists, a copy of the passport may also be presented.
Quick eligibility checks
Tax-free shopping is for non-residents who are staying in Japan temporarily. Foreign nationals living in Japan, including international students and people working in Japan, are generally not eligible.
Japanese citizens who have lived outside Japan continuously for at least two years and are returning for less than six months may be eligible if they show the required documents.
Purchases normally need to be made within six months of the date of landing in Japan. Each purchaser must show their own passport and complete the procedure in their own name.
- Can every foreign visitor use Tax-Free shopping in Japan?
- Can foreigners living in Japan use Tax-Free shopping?
- Can a Japanese citizen living overseas use Tax-Free shopping in Japan?
- What do I need to show when shopping Tax-Free in Japan?
- Can children use Tax-Free shopping in Japan?
- Can cruise passengers use Tax-Free shopping in Japan?
- See all FAQ