Job Discussion Forums

[Hoser]

How does it work exactly? I didn't think that I would qualify but I was reading an ad in the Daily Yomiuri today and the 3 qualifications for dutyfree were
a)over 10,001 yen
b)have a valid visa
c)been here for less than 6 months

According to this I can qualify don't I? I assumed that I wouldnt be allowed to purchase duty free merchandise because I was going to be here at least a year. Does the fact that my visa is a one year visa disqualify me? Am I seeing a loophole here that doesn't actually exist? Or should I get my butt over to Akihabara before my 6 months rolls around?

[lajzar]

I understand it to be "have a valid tourist visa". In other words, anyone who is working full time or otherwise in some kind fo residential status is disqualified.

[guest of Japan]

If it's for personal use, a duty won't matter. When you go back home, you just carry your property.