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Entry and Exit

When traveling internationally, entering and leaving the country has rules and regulations. The main content of this channel contains the Japanese entry regulations, exit regulations, tax refunds, and other content. As long as you abide by the rules, entering and exiting Japan is usually hassle-free. Just remember to keep in mind the entry and exit regulations when you do travel to Japan. While in Japan, when you purchase at certain stores, you can receive a tax refund. To learn more about the entry and exit regulations and receiving tax refunds while in Japan, you can read more about it on our dedicated page. If you have any further questions, please feel free to reach out to our customer service representatives.

Most Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the border inspection process for entering Japan?
    First fill out an entry card, which can be obtained on the airplane or at the custom desk. Use the foreigner passage and be ready to answer questions from custom officer regarding the duration, reason, and schedule for your visit. As of now, fingerprints are required from foreign visitors.
  • What to pay attention to when going through custom?
    After getting your luggage, you need to go through custom. For traveler without any taxable item, they can use the green passage. Otherwise, they will need to use the red passage. Everyone must submit a baggage declaration form.
  • What is prohibited from bringing into Japan?
    Drug such as marijuana and opium, drug-related apparatus, guns, bombs, explosives, gunpowder, chemical weapons, and books and CD with pornographic or counterfeiting content are all prohibited from entering the country.
  • What is the difference between tax-free and tax refund?
    Tax free product has a net price after deducting tax. Product with tax refund, on the other hand, allows customers to re-claim tax after paying the total. For a tax refund, you will be refunded on value-added tax and consumption tax. When you purchase a tax free product, you get exempted from import tax. Many products in Japan have very little import tax if any, so tax exempt or tax refund usually refers to consumption tax.
  • How much do I need to spend to qualify for tax free?
    Since the implementation of the new tax policy in 1 July 2018, any purchase, on common goods or consumables, over 5000 yen qualifies for tax free. Consumables include food, beverages, alcohol, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, etc.
  • What is the process on getting a tax refund?
    In Japan, there are two ways to get a tax refund. One method is to get tax deduction at checkout counter by showing your passport. Another method is to first pay with tax, and then get a tax refund at a designate counter within the same day of purchase by showing your purchase, receipt, and passport.
  • How do I get a tax refund after paying with tax?
    You can claim a tax refund at designate counter or service center. You will have to show your purchase, receipt, and passport. After signing any required document, the tax will be returned to you in cash. If you pay by credit card, the tax can also be refunded to the credit card.
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