Professional Camera → Japan

Personal equipment allowed; ATA Carnet for commercial use

Details

Japan allows personal photography equipment including professional cameras, lenses, and lighting without restrictions. For commercial assignments, an ATA Carnet is recommended for temporary import of professional equipment valued above JPY 200,000 to avoid paying consumption tax. In the reverse direction (taking professional camera out of Japan): allowed — Professional camera equipment may be exported from Japan freely at personal-use quantities.

Documentation required

• ATA Carnet recommended for commercial use

Legal reference

Customs Act, ATA Convention

Leaving with this item

Professional camera equipment may be exported from Japan freely at personal-use quantities.

Practical advice

Personal gear is fine. Professional assignments: bring an ATA Carnet to avoid 10% consumption tax on temporary equipment imports.

Customs authority

Japan Customs (Ministry of Finance) · https://www.customs.mof.go.jp