Regulated under the Qualified Invoice Issuing System (QIIS). Aligns with Japan’s consumption tax requirements and international e-invoicing standards.
Implementation of mandatory e-invoicing in Japan

Japan introduced a new invoicing system to align with international standards and improve tax transparency:
- In October 2023, the Qualified Invoicing System was launched. Only registered businesses can issue qualified invoices, which are required to claim input VAT deductions.
- While e-invoicing is not yet fully mandatory, Japan has adopted the Peppol format as its national standard. The Japan Peppol Authority oversees compliance and network use.
- A voluntary phase is ongoing, with broader adoption expected through 2026, especially for B2B transactions and public procurement.
Who needs e-invoices in Japan?
- Registered Businesses: Must issue qualified invoices under QIIS to enable recipients to claim consumption tax credits.
- Exporters: Required for cross-border transactions to ensure accurate tax reporting.
- Non-Resident Businesses: Must comply with QIIS if registered for consumption tax purposes in Japan.
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E-Invoicing vs. E-Billing
| Aspect |
E-Invoicing |
E-Billing |
| Purpose |
Tax compliance under
QIIS |
Informal or customerfocused transactions |
| Purpose |
Via certified systems |
Not validated |
| Archiving |
Required for 7 years |
Optional |
Key features of Japan’s e-invoicing system
Japan’s e-invoicing system involves:
- Submission via Certified Systems: Invoices must adhere to QIIS standards.
- Validation: Ensures compliance with consumption tax regulations.
- Archiving: Digital storage required for 7 years under Japanese tax laws.
E-invoicing dataset
E-invoices in Japan include the following critical data:
- Issuer/Recipient IDs: Registration numbers under QIIS.
- Invoice Details: Invoice number, issue date, and payment terms.
- Goods and Services: Line-item descriptions, quantities, unit prices, and subtotals.
- Taxes: Applicable consumption tax rates and amounts.
- Transaction Info: Total payable amount, currency, and payment method.
- Digital Signature: Ensures authenticity and integrity of the invoice.
E-invoicing across transaction types
B2B Transactions:
- Mandatory to ensure compliance with consumption tax
regulations.
- Facilitates accurate tax credit claims, streamlines recordkeeping, and audits.
B2C Transactions
- Not mandatory but encouraged for transparency and internal
efficiencies.
B2G Transactions:
- Expected to align with international e-invoicing standards,
ensuring compliance and transparency.
Penalties for non-compliance in Japan
Non-compliance with Japan’s e-invoicing regulations may result in:
- Fines: Monetary penalties for non-compliance.
- Loss of Tax Credits: Non-compliant invoices may result in ineligibility for tax credits.
- Legal Risks: Repeated violations may lead to audits and reputational damage.
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