Tax-Free

Foreign visitors to Japan can claim consumption tax refunds on qualifying purchases — and the amounts add up quickly on major purchases. Most tourists don’t claim everything they’re entitled to because they don’t know the rules. Here’s how to do it correctly. Who Can Shop Tax-Free? The tax exemption (免税, menzei) is available for: Foreign tourists on short-term stays (tourist visa or visa-waiver entry) Foreign residents leaving Japan permanently (less common) NOT eligible: ...

Quick Answer NISA is Japan’s tax-free investment account. Foreigners with a residence card and My Number can open one — most don’t realize they’re eligible. The 2024 new NISA allows up to ¥3.6M/year tax-free, with a ¥18M lifetime limit and no expiry. NISA is Japan’s tax-free investment account — similar in concept to an ISA or Roth IRA — and foreign residents can open one. Most foreigners never use it because they don’t know they’re eligible. Here’s how NISA works and whether it makes sense for you. ...