Arriving in Japan: how the customs declaration works through Visit Japan Web and the e-Gates

Japan Customs requires all passengers entering Japan to submit a customs declaration and recommends doing so electronically through Visit Japan Web, a service of Japan's Digital Agency that allows arrival procedures for immigration and customs, as well as tax-free shopping, to be completed online.

After logging in to Visit Japan Web and completing the declaration, the traveller receives a 2D code containing the declaration information. On arrival, the code and an IC passport are held over the scanner at the electronic declaration terminal in the customs inspection area. Japan Customs says Electronic Customs Declaration Gates, known as e-Gates, are available at seven international airports, and electronic declaration is also possible at some inspection desks.

Two details matter for repeat visitors. Codes created with the older Customs Declaration App have not been valid since 25 January 2024, so travellers who used that app before need to use Visit Japan Web instead. Those who prefer not to declare online can still use the existing paper Customs Declaration Form, which Japan Customs publishes in several languages.

Submitting electronically does not exempt anyone from checks, as Japan Customs notes that electronic declarants may still be inspected by customs officers.

The customs page does not list the seven e-Gate airports or say how far in advance the code should be created, so travellers should consult Japan Customs and the Digital Agency guide before departure.