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10 Essential Questions About TIN in Japan

Updated On December 3, 2025
1 minute Read
10 Essential Questions About TIN in Japan

SaaS platforms and multinational firms in Japan commonly face reporting delays when misapplying the “My Number” or the “Corporate Number.” This is a typical problem in the country’s Qualified Invoice System (invoiced-based VAT). International firms may suffer compliance setbacks from unvalidated identifiers in cross-border filings, stressing the need for exact identifier control during client onboarding. 

Japan’s tax regulations are administered centrally, but the unified framework can still cause mix-ups between individual and corporate codes. Using an outdated or incorrect ID in Consumption Tax (JCT) submissions frequently leads to audits. This article answers the 10 essential questions about TIN in Japan, offering clear insights to help you navigate the system. It is notably applicable for locals, foreign investors, and multinational operations, with solutions like TaxDo delivering reliable validation in anticipation of 2026 digital tax enhancements.

Common Questions

What is a TIN in Japan?

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A TIN in Japan refers to two systems. For individuals, the My Number (Individual Number) is a 12-digit ID used for social security and tax. For businesses, the Corporate Number (Houjin Bangou) is a 13-digit ID used for corporate tax and the Consumption Tax (JCT). Under the new "Qualified Invoice System," the Corporate Number (prefixed with 'T') serves as the registration number for VAT purposes. For SaaS billing, this 'T' number is mandatory for clients to claim tax credits.

What types of TIN numbers exist?

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Who needs a TIN in this country?

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What is the format of the TIN?

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How to register or apply for a TIN?

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Which authority issues the TIN?

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How to verify a TIN in Japan?

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What happens if a TIN is incorrect or missing?

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Do you need a TIN for international transactions?

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How TaxDo Simplifies Japan Tax ID Number Verification

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Conclusion

Mastering TIN in Japan—specifically the transition to the Qualified Invoice System—is vital for market success. With these answers, you're prepared for compliance. To explore how TaxDo can address your specific client onboarding challenges in Japan, we invite you to schedule a free demo with our team.