Japan will introduce a revised tax-free shopping system for international visitors on November 1, requiring tourists to pay consumption tax on eligible purchases upfront and claim refunds when departing the country.
The changes aim to curb the resale of tax-free goods within Japan and simplify procedures for retailers, according to TravelMole. Under the new system, eligible visitors will pay tax-inclusive prices at participating stores before applying for refunds once customs confirms that their purchases are being taken out of the country.
Travellers will need to scan their passports at designated terminals at airports or seaports before departure. Depending on the result, they may also be required to present their purchases for inspection. Refunds will be processed through the relevant retailer or its appointed refund service provider.
At major airports, including Tokyo’s Haneda and Narita, travellers will also be able to use digital procedures through Japan’s Visit Japan Web service. Passengers should complete the process before checking in luggage containing tax-free purchases and allow sufficient time for any required inspections.
The overhaul also removes the JPY500 000 (R55 000) purchase limit on consumable goods such as cosmetics and alcohol, and eliminates the requirement for special packaging. However, eligible purchases must be taken out of Japan, and consumables used before departure will not qualify for refunds. The minimum qualifying purchase remains JPY5 000 (R550), excluding tax, per store per day.
AloJapan.com