Must Chinese notarized documents be translated into Japanese? Do they need authentication?
Sources: NTA public materials and practical guidance from this tool. Last updated: 2026-06-19. Tax rules may change; follow your local tax office’s latest requirements.
Brief answer: Attach Japanese or English translations. Some tax offices require Ministry of Foreign Affairs authentication and Japanese embassy/consulate authentication—confirm with your local office in advance.
Detailed explanation
Chinese notarized documents have legal validity, but Japanese staff may not read Chinese. Common practice: (1) bilingual notarization from the notary office; (2) self-prepared or professional Japanese translation with signature. Under the Hague Convention, some documents need apostille; traditional process uses MFA consular authentication plus Japanese embassy/consulate in China. Requirements vary by office; areas with more Chinese residents (Tokyo, Osaka) have more established procedures. Inaccurate translation may require correction. Consult your local tax office or this tool's checklist. The tax office has final authority on formal requirements.