If foreign visitors do shopping in Japan, they had better to know Japan's tax exemption program.
Tax exemption in Japan basically applies to all items, from general items to consumable items. Tax is exempt only under certain conditions.
■ 1. How much tax can be refunded?
The 8% consumption tax is refunded as long as you are shopping at a tax-free store and file your tax exemption application on the same day.
■ 2. Who can use?
Only foreign visitors staying in Japan for less than six months can use this system.
■ 3. What is subject to the tax exemption?
The consumption tax will be refunded for general items and consumable items with a purchase amount of 5,000 yen or more in each category.
This is not the combined amount of the general items and consumable items; the minimum purchase amount must be satisfied for each category.
General items are such as home appliances, accessories, and shoes.
Consumable items are such as alcohol, food, cosmetics, tobacco, and medicines.
■ 4. What is necessary at a store?
You need to show your passport with a valid entry stamp at the store where you want to apply for a tax refund.
You must show your actual passport, not a copy of the visa page. Cruise ship tourists need to show their cruise ship tourist permit.
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I hope this information helps readers.
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Ref. JNTO site: https://tax-freeshop.jnto.go.jp