Japan Tax-Free FAQ After Nov 1, 2026: Kiosk, Same Day, Cash Refund

Short answers to the questions travelers ask most since the refund method started on Nov 1, 2026.

I bought something on October 31. Which rules apply?

The rules depend on the purchase date. Purchases up to Oct 31, 2026 used the old system; purchases from Nov 1, 2026 use the refund method. Check the Japan Tourism Agency guidance for your case (JTA, Kansai Airport).

Can I do the customs check the day before my flight?

No. At Kansai Airport the procedure is limited to your departure day. Plan to do it when you arrive at the airport, before check-in (Kansai Airport).

Do I need my boarding pass for the kiosk?

No. Scan your passport at the customs kiosk, or log in to Visit Japan Web on the dedicated Wi-Fi (Kansai Airport).

I checked my bag before the kiosk. What now?

Items in checked bags can't be confirmed, and you may not get a refund. Always do the kiosk first (Fukuoka Airport, Naha Airport).

What do Green and Red mean?

Green: the customs check is complete, go to check-in. Red: customs needs to see your goods — keep all items with you and follow the staff (Kansai Airport, Fukuoka Airport).

How do I get the money?

It depends on the shop: card, app, bank or cash. Cash refunds are paid in Japanese yen at machines or counters after immigration at some airports (Kansai, Fukuoka, Naha). Ask your shop.

I'm connecting from a domestic flight. Where do I do it?

At the airport where you leave Japan. Don't check your tax-free goods through to the final destination (Kansai Airport, Fukuoka Airport).

I ate one snack from a receipt. Can I still claim the rest?

No. If any item from one purchase is missing at departure, that purchase is not eligible. Don't use the kiosk for it (JTA, Customs).

How long do I have?

You must leave Japan within 90 days of purchase (Fukuoka Airport, Naha Airport, Customs).

Do airport duty-free shops need this?

No. Duty-free shops after immigration sell at duty-free prices, so no customs check or refund is needed (Kansai Airport).

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