You may be eligible for tax-free shopping in Japan if you meet any of the following conditions.
1. Foreign Nationals
You are eligible for tax-free shopping if you are a non-resident of Japan and meet one of the following conditions:
Temporary Visitor: You entered Japan with a "Temporary Visitor" status and have been in Japan for less than 6 months.
Diplomatic or Official Status: You hold a "Diplomatic" or "Official" residence status.
Special Landing Permit: You entered Japan with a qualifying landing permit, such as a Crew Member Landing Permit or Cruise Ship Tourist Landing Permit, and have been in Japan for less than 6 months.
U.S. Military Personnel: You hold a valid SOFA stamp.
Note: Visitors with Diplomatic, Official, or SOFA status may remain eligible even if more than 6 months have passed since entering Japan.
2. Japanese Nationals Living Abroad
If you are a Japanese national living overseas, you may be eligible for tax-free shopping if you meet all of the following conditions:
You have lived outside Japan continuously for at least 2 years.
You entered Japan within the past 6 months.
You can provide an eligible document, such as a Certificate of Residence (在留証明) or a Copy of the Supplementary Family Register (戸籍の附票の写し), confirming your overseas residence and required details, including your registered domicile.
Please note:
Your eligibility must be verified using the required documents when you apply for tax-free shopping.