Anyone living in Japan, regardless of nationality, files a tax return between February 16 and March 15 of the following year if they have certain income. For foreign nationals, foreign income and length of residence affect what must be reported.
We can help if you
- work in Japan as a freelancer or sole proprietor
- are an employee with side income or overseas income
- need tax certificates or return copies to renew your visa
- did not file in some past years
When you need to file
- You have business or freelance income.
- You are an employee with more than 200,000 yen of income other than salary.
- You receive salary from two or more employers, or your salary exceeds 20 million yen.
- You have foreign income that is taxable in Japan (depending on your residence category).
- You want to claim the foreign tax credit, medical expense deduction or similar.
Even if you do not need to file for income tax because other income is 200,000 yen or less, a separate inhabitant tax declaration is still required.
For freelancers and sole proprietors
- Notification and blue returns: with blue return approval and proper books, you can claim a deduction of up to 650,000 yen and other benefits. There are deadlines, so apply soon after starting your business.
- Expenses: if you work from home, rent and utilities can be deducted in proportion to business use.
- Consumption tax and invoices: if your sales exceed 10 million yen a year or you register for qualified invoices, you also file consumption tax returns.
Visa renewal
Visa renewals may require inhabitant tax certificates and tax payment certificates. Unreported income will not appear on these certificates, so it is worth checking your filing status before you renew.
How we help
- Understand your situationWe ask about your arrival date, types of income, and overseas income and remittances.
- Document listWe send you a list of documents needed, in English if you prefer.
- Prepare and fileWe prepare and e-file your return and explain the result and tax payable.
Fees (excl. tax)
- Salary or pension only: from ¥30,000
- Including business or overseas income: from ¥100,000
See Pricing for details.
FAQ
What if I did not file in past years?
You can still file late. Filing before the tax office contacts you generally means lower penalties. We will decide together how many years to go back.
I am leaving Japan. What happens to my tax return?
If you will still have Japanese income, you appoint a tax agent. If not, you file a return for the year before you leave. See Resident or Non-Resident?
This page provides general information only. The actual treatment depends on your individual circumstances. Please consult a professional before making decisions.