What will change in Japan's Tax-Free system from November 2026?
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.
From November 1, 2026, the major changes will include tax-inclusive payment at stores, customs confirmation within 90 days of purchase, refunds after departure procedures, abolition of the general-goods/consumables distinction, removal of the JPY 500,000 consumables cap, and abolition of special sealed packaging.
The minimum purchase amount itself remains JPY 5,000 excluding tax; only the processing method changes.
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.