Overview
- Government and ruling coalition are coordinating on an increase to the international tourism levy, with ¥3,000 as the central option under discussion.
- Proceeds are intended for overtourism countermeasures such as easing congestion and curbing bad behavior, though officials note potential impacts on inbound demand.
- The charge now stands at ¥1,000 per departing traveler, a tax introduced in 2019.
- Policymakers are considering using part of the added revenue to fund a large cut in passport issuance fees for Japanese citizens.
- Separate plans moving forward next fiscal year would raise visa application fees for visitors and shift consumption tax-free shopping to refunds at departure to prevent resale abuse.