How to File Income Tax in Japan
Filing deadline
The typical filing deadline in Japan is 31 July, though extensions may be available depending on your filing method and residency status.
How filing actually works in Japan
Most employees have tax fully settled through the employer's year-end adjustment (nenmatsu chosei) and never file a return. Those with additional income, or salary over ¥20 million, must file a return (kakutei shinkoku) by 15 March.
Who needs to file
- Employees whose only income is salary may have tax fully withheld by their employer and may not need to file separately, depending on local rules.
- Self-employed individuals, freelancers, and business owners generally must file an annual return.
- Anyone with additional income (investments, rental property, foreign income) should check local filing thresholds.
Do non-residents need to file?
Residency status changes what you owe and whether you need to file at all. A resident is anyone with a domicile in Japan or who has resided there for one year or more. Non-permanent residents (foreign nationals present under five years) are taxed differently on foreign-source income. Non-residents are typically taxed only on Japan-source income, often at different rates or without access to resident-only allowances.
Steps to file
- Gather income statements (employer statements, invoices, investment income records) for the 2026 tax year.
- Determine your filing status and applicable deductions — see the deductions guide.
- Calculate taxable income and tax owed — use the calculator on this site as a starting estimate, and check the brackets guide for a worked example.
- Submit your return through National Tax Agency (NTA) or with a licensed preparer before 31 July.
- Keep records for at least the period required by local law (commonly 4–7 years).
What happens if you file late
Most tax authorities charge a late-filing penalty (often a percentage of unpaid tax, sometimes a flat fee) plus interest that accrues daily until the balance is paid. Filing on time even without full payment usually avoids the larger late-filing penalty, leaving only late-payment interest to deal with.
This is general guidance, not tax advice. Filing rules vary by residency, income type, and year — confirm details with National Tax Agency (NTA).