https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/japan-switches-from-tax-free-shopping-to-refund-based-system-for-nonresidentsContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/japan-switches-from-tax-free-shopping-to-refund-based-system-for-nonresidentshttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/japan-switches-from-tax-free-shopping-to-refund-based-system-for-nonresidents#u175904Thu, 05 Nov 2026 01:21:20 +0000Japan transitioned to a "pay now, refund later" tax system for eligible nonresident visitors on November 1, 2026. Travelers must now pay the full consumption tax at the point of purchase and claim a refund later. To receive the money back, shoppers must complete customs confirmation within 90 days. The process involves clearing customs at the airport before check-in, with some travelers reporting refund times of less than a minute at airport kiosks. Fees and specific procedures vary depending on the store or refund service used.Why it mattersThe shift ends the practice of purchasing