Japan tax refund: how and when the money comes back

The refund comes from the tax-free shop, or from a refund operator the shop uses, after customs confirms that the goods are leaving Japan. The Japan Tourism Agency lists bank transfer, credit card, app transfer and cash at the departure airport as possible methods. Each shop decides which it offers.

Updated October 2, 2026

4refund methods named by the Japan Tourism Agency

90days to pass the customs check first

Ways the refund can be paid

The Japan Tourism Agency names four possible methods. Each shop decides which ones it offers.

Bank transfer
Transfer to a credit card
Transfer through an app
Cash at the airport or seaport where you passed the customs check

Japan Tourism AgencyPossible refund methods include bank transfers, credit card transfers, app-based refunds, or cash refunds at the port of departure after customs confirmation. Refund methods vary by shop, so please inquire with the tax-free shop for details.Japan Tourism Agency

Registering your refund details

You register how you want the refund in the shop, when you buy.

The shop, or the refund operator it uses, explains the steps. The Japan Tourism Agency's leaflet shows card or bank details being registered at the time of purchase.

Check the account or card details you register. If the refund cannot be paid because of a mistake in them, the amount may not be paid under your agreement with the shop.

When it is paid

In general the refund is made after the customs check at the airport or seaport confirms the sale as tax-free.

The consumption tax law sets no rules on how the refund is carried out, so the method differs by shop. Ask the shop about the method and the timing when you buy.

Who pays it

The tax-free shop pays the refund itself or hands the work to a refund operator.

What the National Tax Agency says about refunds

The shop carries out the refund itself or entrusts it to another business.
The consumption tax law sets no rules on how the refund is carried out.
A shop may refund before the customs check. If the customer then does not pass the check, the sale is not tax-free for the shop, so the shop does this at its own risk.

Source: National Tax Agency — Q&A on the tax-free shop system under the refund method, overview, April 2026 (輸出物品販売場制度に関するQ&A)

Frequently asked questions

Can I get my Japan tax refund in cash?

It depends on the shop. Cash at the departure airport or seaport after the customs check is one of the methods the Japan Tourism Agency lists, with bank transfer, credit card and app transfer.

When do I get the tax refund from Japan?

In general after the customs check at the airport or seaport confirms the sale as tax-free. Ask the shop for its timing.

Who pays the tax refund?

The tax-free shop, or a refund operator working for the shop.

Where do I register my refund method?

In the shop, when you buy. The shop or its refund operator explains the steps.