Do I need a tax representative in Japan?
If you live outside Japan and need to file a Japanese tax return or receive tax notices from Japanese tax authorities, you may need to appoint a tax representative in Japan. Whether this is required depends on your tax status and the facts of your case.
Can a non-resident file a Japanese income tax return?
Yes. A non-resident may need to file a Japanese income tax return if they have certain Japanese-source income, such as rental income from real estate located in Japan or capital gains from the sale of Japanese real estate.
Do foreign owners pay tax on rental income in Japan?
Foreign or non-resident owners may be subject to Japanese tax if they earn rental income from real estate located in Japan. In some cases, withholding tax may apply to rent payments, and the withheld amount is settled through the annual tax return.
What is a tax representative?
A tax representative handles tax-related procedures in Japan on behalf of a non-resident taxpayer. This may include receiving tax notices, communicating with tax authorities, and supporting tax filing and payment procedures.
Can Kudan Partners file my Japanese tax return?
Yes. Kudan Partners can support Japanese tax return preparation and filing for eligible clients after confirming the scope of work and required documents.
Do I need a tax representative if I only own a vacation home?
Even if the property is not rented out, you may still receive fixed asset tax and city planning tax notices from the local government. A local tax representative may be needed if you live outside Japan and cannot receive or respond to these notices in Japan.
What happens when a non-resident sells Japanese real estate?
A non-resident who sells Japanese real estate may need to file a Japanese tax return for capital gains. Withholding tax may also apply to the sale proceeds in certain cases.
What documents do I need to provide?
Required documents depend on the service. Common documents include identification, proof of overseas address, property registration information, purchase and sale agreements, lease agreements, rental statements, fixed asset tax notices, and prior-year tax returns.
Can I send documents through the website form?
Please do not send passports, tax notices, contracts, or other sensitive documents through the initial website form. We will provide a secure method for document sharing after confirming the engagement.
Can you communicate in English?
Yes. English communication is available for non-resident and foreign property owner tax matters.
Do you offer video meetings or phone calls?
Our standard services are provided by email and secure online communication. Video meetings and phone calls are not included unless separately agreed.
What is included in the Initial Written Case Review?
The Initial Written Case Review includes a review of the information you provide regarding your residency status, Japanese property, rental or sale status, prior filing history, and whether you may need a tax representative in Japan. After the review, we provide a written summary of likely required services, key documents to prepare, potential tax filing issues, and an estimated fee.
Does the Initial Written Case Review include tax return preparation?
No. The Initial Written Case Review does not include tax return preparation, detailed tax calculations, communication with tax authorities, tax representative notification filings, or unlimited follow-up questions.
Will Kudan Partners pay taxes on my behalf?
No. Kudan Partners does not advance tax payments, penalties, interest, government fees, bank charges, or remittance fees on behalf of clients unless separately agreed in writing. The legal obligation to pay Japanese taxes remains with the taxpayer or property owner.
For service details, see Tax Representative in Japan, Rental Income Tax Return, Property Sale Tax Filing, Fixed Asset Tax Support, and Fees.
Communication policy: Our services are generally provided by email and secure online communication. Video meetings and phone calls are not included in the standard service unless separately agreed.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, legal, or investment advice. Japanese tax treatment depends on the specific facts and circumstances of each case. A professional engagement with Kudan Partners begins only after the scope of work, fees, and engagement terms are agreed in writing.