A recent video sparked heated debate on social media when Vietnamese passengers entering Japan were detained by customs for checking Chanel bags. Initially, the bag was suspected of being a counterfeit, but after verification, the rider was notified of the tax issue due to the high value of the bag.
This story makes many people preparing to go to the country of cherry blossoms feel bewildered. So in fact, is it taxable to go to Japan with branded bags?
Let's learn in detail about regulations for personal items, new goods, counterfeit goods and the most skillful handling when checked by customs through the article below.
Note:: Social shares typically only reflect personal experiences in specific circumstances. All provisions mentioned in this article should be compared with the official information of the Japanese Customs (Japan Customs) at the time of your exit/entry.
1. Is it true that "Brand names over $1,800 have to pay tax"?
Rumor has it that bringing brand-name items, handbags or watches valued at over $1,800 into Japan will be taxed. However, this information should be properly understood to avoid confusion.
Where does the $1,800 price come from?
In fact, the figure of 1,800 USD is the equivalent of the tax exemption norm JPY 200,000 regulated by Japanese Customs for staple goods∙ Personal items, clothing, essential items, and equipment carried for travel or personal use shall be exempt from tax if their total overseas market value (excluding alcohol, tobacco, perfume) does not exceed this amount.
However, a clear distinction should be made between goods bought abroad brought into Japan and personal trip supplies.
For example, a branded bag that has been owned and used in advance, brought for personal needs during travel, may be exempt from tax if it meets the conditions of Japanese Customs.
Conversely, a new bag purchased abroad worth 300,000 JPY, even if purchased for personal use and with no intention of reselling, may still be subject to tax upon entry.
Therefore, it's impossible to determine whether or not tax needs to be paid based solely on the value of the bag.
Controversies over brand name fines over $1,800
Does being inspected mean being fined or paid taxes?
No. The fact that Japan Customs inspects high value bags, watches or luggage does not mean that the passenger has violated the regulations or is sure to pay taxes. The Customs Authority may inspect to verify the origin, purpose of use, quantity and nature of the goods carried. If the item meets the tax exemption for personal items, riders may be eligible for the prescribed tax exemption.
Therefore, instead of worrying too much about the information that spreads on social media, you should carefully learn the regulations, declare honestly and prepare the necessary information about high-value items to bring with you on the trip.
2. Classification of 4 situations with branded items when entering Japan
Not every Chanel bag, Louis Vuitton or Rolex watch brought into Japan is subject to the same tax calculation.
Depending on the origin, intended use, quantity and nature of the goods, Japanese Customs will consider each specific case.
4 common branded situations to keep in mind when entering Japan
Personal items (1-2 in use):
Items owned, in actual use, and carried in reasonable quantities for the trip may be tax-free. Customs will consider the specific nature and circumstances of the goods.
Example: You go to Japan for 7 days and bring:
1 Chanel bag in use;
1 Rolex watch being worn;
some personal jewelry;
clothes and travel supplies.
Items like that can be considered as personal belongings, reasonable quantity and not intended for sale.
Japan Customs definition of personal effects including items such as clothing, books, cosmetics, personal jewelry, and those for personal needs that are deemed necessary.
It is recommended that you bring enough personal items, limit cramming too many expensive items in the checked suitcase because it is easy for customs to call back when screening.
Brand new (Full tag, box)
If you bring a handbag, watch or jewelry in a box, with a stamp, Customs is very easy to classify commercial goods instead of personal items. In particular, if an individual item is over ¥200,000 in value and is subject to tax, tax may be levied on the entire value of the item rather than just the excess amount.
For example, you just bought a bag worth 350,000 JPY for personal use. The bag may still be subject to tax when entering Japan, although you do not intend to resell it. You are required to declare taxable on the Japanese customs declaration and fulfill the obligation to pay import tax.
Carrying multiple bags, watches, or branded items
Whether it is old or new, if you bring a large number of bags to Japan.
Exampleto:
4–5 brand bags;
many of the same model;
Many items are still in original boxes;
provide protection for others;
or there are signs of buying and reselling.
In this case, it is highly likely that Customs will consider this item to be for commercial purposes. You are obligated to... proactively declare into the flow of commercial goods (go to Red Door - Red Channel) and perform tax obligations in accordance with the provisions of Japanese Customs.
Counterfeit goods (Fake/Replica)
This is a case where you need special attention. When bringing fake bags or replica goods to Japan, the problem is not in the calculation of taxes but directly related to intellectual property right∙ Japan's Customs and Border Protection Agency has listed intellectual property infringing products on the list of goods banned from import.
In particular, since October 2022, Japan has tightened controls on counterfeit goods. Products such as handbags, wallets, fake clothes sent from overseas businesses/sellers to Japan (even if the recipient claims to buy only for personal use) are at high risk of being blocked from import by Customs.
Therefore, to avoid the hassle of losing time at the airport, it is best not to bring counterfeit branded products when coming to Japan.
3. No more invoices (Bill) to buy branded goods, how can I prove it?
This must be one of the most common worries of travelers. However, this article can assure everyone that: having no purchase invoice (bill) does not mean that your item is in trouble or taxed. For used personal belongings, the invoice is just one of many pieces of evidence to help you explain the origin and period of ownership.
If you no longer have paper bills, you can completely prepare the following alternative information:
Purchase confirmation email or e-invoice from the firm.
Credit Card Transaction History coincides with the time of purchase.
Customer account (Member account) on the brand's official website.
Documents and certificates of second-hand sales (if purchased through a third party).
Old image: Even the old photos of you using this item in Vietnam many months ago are a very convincing proof.
4. Do all passengers entering Japan have to declare Customs?
Yes. This is required for 100% of riders. The Japanese Customs and Border Protection Agency stipulates that every individual on entry must make a Customs Declaration for their luggage.
This means It is not because you carry Chanel bags or expensive items that you have to declare, but Customs declaration is a mandatory legal process when entering Japan∙ Currently, Japanese Customs encourages all visitors to make electronic declarations through the platform Visit Japan Web to save time checking in at the airport.
Instructions for declaring Japanese Customs on Visit Japan Web
Difference between Green Channel and Red Channel at Japan Airport
After receiving the baggage, the passenger will carry out the Customs inspection procedure according to the instructions at the airport.
Green Door (Green Channel): For passengers who do not carry goods that are subject to import taxes, prohibited goods, or restricted goods.
Red Channel: For the remaining cases, including passengers whose goods are subject to tax or need additional customs procedures.
If you are unsure whether your branded item is tax-free, you should actively ask the Customs staff and honestly declare it for proper guidance. Customs declaration also does not mean that you have to pay taxes for sure!
5. 05 steps to handle wisely when customs withhold inspection
If detained for checking a purse, watch or other high-value item, the most important thing is don't rush to debate based on what you've seen on social media platforms. Take the following 5 steps one at a time to make things go smoothly:
Step 1: Calmly ask the exact reason for the inspection
Take the initiative to ask what customs officers want to check: do they suspect the bag is counterfeit, want to check expensive taxes, or think you're carrying items for business purposes?
Knowing why will help you explain the focus.
Step 2: Explain that this is a personal item in use
If it is a personal item to bring on the trip, clearly explain when it was purchased, its use and the reason for bringing it along on the trip. Show them the bag with the tags removed, with signs of use, or open the bag to show them the lipstick, wallet, and keys inside.
If it is a new product purchased abroad, you also need to provide truthful information for Customs to determine tax obligations, if any.
Step 3: Provide supporting documents and emails
Show emails, photos or purchase history as prepared in part 3. Remember, there is no law that stipulates that people who go to Japan are "required to bring a paper bill" with them.
Step 4: Ask for assistance in interpreting if you are not familiar with the language
If you are not fluent in English or Japanese, absolutely do not rush to sign any documents. You should use the language translation application on your phone to request a translator or meet with your Supervisor for a clearer explanation.
Step 5: Keep the minutes and invoices if you have to pay
In the unfortunate case of taxes, fines or confiscation (due to counterfeit goods), ask customs to issue a record and keep all documents. This is an important document for you to review or appeal later if necessary.
5 steps to handle wisely when being held back by customs
6. Things to keep in mind when bringing high-value items to Japan
To make your trip truly complete, quickly check the Checklist below before packing branded items into your suitcase:
Update new regulations: Regularly check the latest Japanese customs regulations before your flight.
Clearly define: Determine exactly whether the items you bring are personal belongings (small quantity, in use) or other goods.
Be careful with social networks: Do not rely entirely on experiences shared on TikTok or Facebook, because each actual case will have a different way of handling it.
Say "No" to fake goods: Master the regulations on intellectual property fake goods to avoid legal trouble.
Honest declaration: If the item is subject to mandatory declaration, fill out the customs declaration honestly from the beginning.
Conclude
Mastering customs regulations will help you feel completely secure and comfortable when traveling to Japan. If you bring a Chanel, LV bag or a genuine watch for reasonable personal use, everything will be completely normal, nothing to worry about.
If you are preparing for your upcoming trip to Phu Tang and still have many concerns about luggage and immigration procedures, please accompany us. Joy Travel's package tour. Our professional team will provide detailed instructions from A-Z, helping you eliminate all worries before departure!
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