If you’re planning to buy an iPhone while visiting Japan, you might wonder if you can get it tax-free. You can buy an iPhone tax-free in Japan, but only if you shop at participating retailers outside of official Apple Stores and meet certain criteria.
This means showing your passport and spending over a set amount at stores that offer tax-free shopping for tourists. Not all stores offer this benefit, and Apple Stores in Japan usually don’t participate in the tax-free program anymore.
However, many electronics shops like BicCamera still allow tourists to purchase iPhones without paying the consumption tax, which could save you around 8%.
How to Buy iPhone Tax Free in Japan
Understanding Tax-Free Eligibility for iPhones in Japan
Buying an iPhone tax-free in Japan requires meeting certain rules. You need to know who qualifies, what documents to show, and limits on tax-free shopping before you can get the benefit.
Who Can Claim Tax-Free Purchases
Only foreign tourists visiting Japan on a short-term visa can claim tax-free purchases. This means you must be in Japan for 90 days or less.
Japanese citizens and long-term residents are not eligible. You must buy from stores that are authorized for tax-free shopping.
Many big electronics retailers like Yodobashi and BicCamera offer this. However, Apple stores in Japan no longer provide tax-free sales.
Your purchases must total over 10,000 yen (about $90 USD) in one visit to qualify. This rule applies to iPhones and other electronic goods.
Spending less than this amount means you cannot claim tax exemption.
Required Documentation
To get the tax-free benefit, you need to show your passport at the time of purchase. The store will copy your passport details to prove that you are a short-term visitor.
You also have to complete a tax refund form provided by the store. This paperwork confirms that you understand the rules of tax-free shopping.
The iPhone you buy must be taken out of Japan. You cannot use it within the country without paying the tax.
The store staff usually keep the purchase receipt and forms for inspection when you leave Japan.
Limits and Restrictions on Tax-Free Shopping
Tax-free shopping for iPhones is limited to non-Japanese visitors on short-term trips. If you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you do not qualify.
Apple stores in Japan stopped participating in tax-free sales from mid-2023. You must check other retailers for eligibility before buying.
The iPhones sold in Japan often have chargers and specifications designed for the Japanese market. Verify if the model works with your home network.
Tax refund is given at the store; there’s no option for a refund at the airport. Some stores might not allow returns or exchanges on tax-free items, so understand their policies before buying.
Where to Buy iPhone Tax Free in Japan
今回のドコモはマジやね。
— ホソP@ガジェット系YouTuber兼ブロガー (@kazu_hosop) March 1, 2021
ahamoが税込2,970円と税込308円値下げしての提供を発表！
さらに取り扱い端末発表されたけど、これほんとに新品なのかと思わせる価格。
iPhone 11がやばいくらい安い！
Apple Storeの最安価格よりも21,890円も安いんだけど(°_°) pic.twitter.com/iNsv50myWp
If you want to buy an iPhone tax-free in Japan, know that not all stores offer this option. Some Apple stores have stopped tax-free sales, but many other places still let you save on taxes.
Shopping at certain retailers or airports can make a difference in your tax refund experience.
Authorized Apple Retailers
Apple stores in Japan generally do not offer tax-free shopping anymore. Apple itself stopped the tax-free program due to high demand and changes in exchange rates.
If you want to buy directly from Apple, you will have to pay the full consumption tax. Some authorized Apple retailers, however, might still offer tax-free shopping.
These stores sell genuine Apple products and follow Japan’s tax-free rules for tourists. Before buying, ask the store if they participate in tax-free shopping and confirm which iPhone models are available tax-free.
Major Electronics Stores
Big electronics retailers like Yodobashi Camera, BicCamera, and Yamada Denki are the best places to find iPhones tax-free. These stores offer a wide range of phones, often including the latest iPhone models.
To qualify for tax-free shopping here, you must show your passport and meet the minimum purchase amount, usually over 5,000 yen. The 8% consumption tax will be removed at checkout or refunded later.
These stores also help with warranty and support issues, but keep in mind iPhones sold here might have Japanese plugs or settings.
Airport Duty-Free Shops
Some airport duty-free shops in Japan sell iPhones without tax, but availability can be limited. Airports like Narita, Haneda, and Kansai offer tax-free electronics for tourists leaving the country.
Buying at the airport means you must show your passport and have the iPhone ready for export. Prices might not always be lower than city stores, but this can be a convenient option if you want to shop last minute before leaving Japan.
Make sure to check stock in advance, as not all airport stores stock the newest iPhone models.
Apple Store Tax Policy in Japan
今日は財テクのご紹介。
— XXX (@XXX_Seek) September 26, 2025
使わなくなったものは売りましょう。できればメルカリで高値を狙うのがいいですが、めんどくさかったら買取屋にGO。
自分は昨日プレステ4とソフト、周辺機器を売って20,000円ぐらいに。それでiPhone Air を買ったので、20,000 - 160,000 = 約0円。… pic.twitter.com/uYU9TPnpuF
Buying an iPhone tax-free in Japan involves understanding Apple’s specific policies. Apple Stores in Japan have unique rules compared to other electronics retailers.
Tax-Free Availability at Apple Stores
Apple Stores in Japan generally do not offer tax-free sales to foreign tourists. When you buy an iPhone directly from Apple in Japan, the usual 10% consumption tax is included in the price.
Unlike many other stores, Apple does not participate in Japan's tax-free shopping system. If you want to save on tax, you need to look at other electronics retailers.
Some stores like BIC Camera or Yodobashi may allow tax-free buying if you meet their requirements, such as showing your passport. At official Apple Stores, this option is not available.
Recent Changes in Apple Tax-Free Sales
Recently, Apple in Japan has faced stricter rules after being fined for improper tax-free sales to resellers. Because of this, Apple stopped offering tax-free purchases to foreign tourists.
Other shops might still sell Apple products tax-free, but it is less common and often depends on store policy. Check with the retailer before making a tax-free Apple purchase in Japan.
How to Complete a Tax-Free Purchase
iPhoneは1円も値上げしてない、日本円がボロッボロなだけ、過去に日本人が東南アジアが安いと言ってたのと同じように、外国人が日本で事業やったり土地を買うのには今が大大大チャンスなのよ。最多最多とウイルスばかり注目させてるうちに、外国人の為に法改正したり海外にばら撒いたりしてたものね← pic.twitter.com/MfDgIUFQgA
— わっしょい魔リちゃん🇹🇭 (@wasshoimarichan) September 17, 2023
To buy an iPhone tax-free in Japan, you must follow specific steps when shopping and at the refund desk. Prepare your passport and meet the purchase requirements to get the consumption tax exemption.
In-Store Procedures
When you buy your iPhone, first show your passport to the store staff. This proves you are a short-term visitor, which is required for tax-free shopping.
The store needs to see your passport to record the purchase. You must spend at least 10,000 yen on eligible items, including the iPhone.
Some stores do not allow tax-free on Apple products, so make sure to shop at electronics retailers that participate in the tax-free program. The staff fill out a Tax Refund Application form for you.
They also attach some purchase documents to your passport, which you must keep safe until you leave Japan. Keep your receipt and forms together so you can get the refund later.
Tax Refund Desk Procedures
After your purchase, go to the designated tax refund counter before leaving Japan. Show the same passport used for the purchase, along with the receipts and application form.
At the desk, they confirm your documents and check that all items are unused and packed properly to leave the country. Then, you receive your refund on the consumption tax, usually about 8-10% of the purchase price.
The refund can be given in cash, credited to a credit card, or paid by other approved methods. Some airports handle refunds at counters near the departure gates, so allow extra time for this process before your flight.
Aftercare and Support for Tax-Free iPhones
When buying an iPhone tax-free in Japan, it’s important to know how warranty and support work. This helps avoid surprises if your phone needs repairs or technical help after purchase.
You should check what kind of warranty applies and how to contact Apple for assistance.
Warranty Coverage for International Buyers
The iPhone you buy in Japan comes with a standard Apple warranty. This warranty usually covers repairs worldwide for hardware problems within one year.
Some repairs linked to software or carrier-specific features may only be supported in the country where you bought the phone. Warranty service could be limited if your iPhone model is made specifically for Japan, especially due to things like the Japanese charger plug or regional settings.
If you want to use warranty support abroad, keep your receipt and any warranty documents. These will be needed when you contact Apple or visit an official service provider.
Getting Help from Apple Support
If you need help with your iPhone, Apple offers multiple support options globally. You can reach Apple Support online, by phone, or at Apple Stores.
When contacting Apple Support, have your purchase details ready. They can guide you through troubleshooting, repairs, or warranty claims.
If you bought your iPhone from a Japanese retailer rather than Apple directly, some support might be given through the retailer as well. Apple’s software support and updates are the same worldwide, so your device from Japan will get regular updates no matter where you use it.
Important Considerations Before You Buy
▶誇らしい海外の映像
— 髙安カミユ（ミジンコまさ） (@martytaka777) December 18, 2023
『日本のApple Storeでは、iPhoneがロックされていない。だから店の外に持ち出すことだってできるのに、伝統と精神性から、誰もそんな事はしない。』
だよね！それが日本(^_-)-☆pic.twitter.com/UeXXwFQf7i
Before buying an iPhone tax-free in Japan, check a few important details. These include whether the phone will work with your home carrier and any rules about bringing the phone back to your country.
Knowing these details helps avoid unexpected problems.
Network Compatibility and SIM Locks
Check if the iPhone you want to buy will work with your home country’s mobile network. Many iPhones sold in Japan are made for local carriers and may have a Japanese SIM lock.
This means they might only work with certain Japanese networks unless unlocked. If the phone is locked, ask the store if it can be unlocked before purchase.
Some retailers sell unlocked models, but they can be harder to find. The charger plug is usually designed for Japan’s outlets, so you may need an adapter.
Checking the iPhone’s compatibility with LTE bands and 5G frequencies used in your country is important. If these don’t match, you could face slow speeds or no connectivity at all.
Customs Regulations in Your Home Country
Bringing an iPhone bought in Japan back home might involve customs duties or taxes. Many countries have limits on how much you can bring in without paying extra fees.
Usually, I must declare the iPhone at customs and could be charged import tax depending on its value. Some countries require you to pay VAT or duty on new electronics purchased abroad.
I also keep all my receipts and proof of purchase to show customs officers if asked. This helps avoid delays or confusion when entering my home country.
