Tax-Free in Japan: What's changing for travelers in 2026!

Japanese tax-free shopping allows certain foreign travelers to purchase goods without paying VAT (shohizei), equivalent to 10% (8% for consumables). While prices in Japan are now displayed inclusive of VAT(zeikomi), the price exclusive of VAT(zeinuki or menzei) is sometimes visible on the label of consumables.

Available to temporary visitors (3 to 6 months' stay), the "Tax Free" program currently offers an immediate discount at the checkout, provided certain rules are respected:

• The minimum amount is 5,000 yen (28 euros) per store per day, with no limit for durable goods.
• For consumables (food, beverages, cosmetics), the limit is capped at 500,000 yen (2,710 euros). These must remain sealed for export outside Japan within 30 days of purchase.

Please note! Only partner stores in the program offer tax-free sales. They can be identified by their "Tax Free" logo, located at the entrance to the store.

Among the program's popular brands are

• Don Quijote for souvenirs and discount items
• Matsumoto Kiyoshi for cosmetics
• Uniqlo for clothing
• Bic Camera and Yodobashi Camera for electronics
• Department stores such as Daimaru, Takashimaya and Isetan

Note that some stores even offer discount coupons that can be combined with tax-free shopping!

How do I make tax-free purchases?

To take advantage of tax-free shopping, all you need to do is present your passport at the time of purchase, as purchases are nominative and must be carried by the traveler him/herself.

Since April 2025, it has been forbidden to send tax-free products by post or private carrier! You must go to a tax-free store(menzei-ten) displaying the Japan Tax-Free Shop logo or with a dedicated Japan Tax-Free Counter.

From November 1, 2026, Japan will adopt a deferred VAT refund system for duty-free purchases. Tourists will pay the tax-inclusive price in store and will be able to obtain the refund after customs validation at the airport. Allow around one to two weeks for a credit card refund and two to four weeks for a bank transfer.

To facilitate the procedure, we recommend that you:

• Keep your invoices and receipts
• Allow extra time at the airport
• Do not unpack products and use the Visit Japan Web QR Code

Back to Europe and duty-free allowances

If you live in Europe, don't forget to keep in mind the customs allowances before you go shopping:

• 430 € maximum per person (non-EU)
• Alcohol and tobacco limits: 200 cigarettes, 4 liters of wine, 16 liters of beer, 2 liters of alcohol under 22° and 1 liter of alcohol over 22°

Enjoy your trip!