Japan: New departure tax for visitors in effect January 7

Event

Visitors to Japan will be subject to a 1000-yen (9.14 USD) departure tax beginning Monday, January 7. The fee will be collected upon departure for all persons who have purchased tickets after Monday. Children under two years of age and those visiting Japan for less than 24 hours are exempt from the fee.

Context

An estimated 30 million people visited Japan in 2018; the government hopes to increase foreign visits to 40 million in 2020. Revenue from the departure tax will be used for tourism promotion initiatives.

Advice

Individuals traveling to Japan are advised to confirm all entry and exit requirements and adhere to instructions issued by local authorities.