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How to Cancel or Change Your NHK Contract in Japan

How to Cancel or Change Your NHK Contract in Japan (Plus What the NHK “Tax” Actually Is)

At some point, most people living in Japan encounter NHK. Usually, it happens when someone from NHK knocks on your door, shows an ID badge, and asks you to sign a form. Many foreigners understandably feel confused—“Is this mandatory? Why am I being charged? How do I cancel?”

This guide explains what NHK actually is, why the “NHK tax” exists, and what to do if you want to change or cancel your contract in a simple, stress-free way.

What Is NHK and Why Does It Charge Fees?

NHK (日本放送協会) is Japan’s public broadcasting service. It operates TV and radio channels funded by viewing fees (受信料) rather than advertisements. The idea is similar to the BBC in the UK—residents pay to support public news and safety broadcasting.

Because NHK broadcasts earthquake and emergency alerts, the government treats it as a public service. That’s why residents with a TV are expected to pay.

Is It a “Tax”?

Not technically. Legally, the NHK fee is not classified as a tax. It is a contract obligation under the Broadcasting Act. But because many residents feel required to pay, people casually refer to it as the “NHK tax.”

Do You Need to Pay If You Don’t Watch NHK?

Watching doesn't matter. If you can receive NHK broadcasts (TV, tuner, or compatible device), NHK considers you contractually obligated.

What Happens If You Signed Without Understanding?

This is extremely common. Many newcomers sign because they assume it's something like city registration. The good news is: you can cancel or modify the contract if your situation has changed (no tuner, leaving Japan, switching equipment, etc.).

NHK Monthly Fees (2025 Standards)

  • Terrestrial only: approximately ¥1,100–¥1,300
  • Satellite + terrestrial: approximately ¥2,200

Many people are unknowingly placed on the more expensive satellite plan. Switching to terrestrial-only can cut the fee nearly in half.

Situations Where Cancellation Is Allowed

You can request cancellation if:

  • You no longer have a TV or TV tuner
  • You moved to a location without TV access
  • You use only a PC/monitor with no tuner
  • You are leaving Japan permanently
  • The contract was mistakenly applied

How to Cancel Your NHK Contract

The cancellation process is generally straightforward. NHK may ask a few questions to confirm eligibility.

Steps:

  • Call NHK Customer Service
  • Explain your situation briefly
  • They will mail a cancellation form
  • You sign and return the form

NHK Official English Contact Page:
https://www.nhk.or.jp/e/

Common Questions NHK Might Ask

NHK may ask simple confirmation questions. Keeping replies factual and short is best.

  • “Do you have a TV?”
    “No, I do not have a tuner.”
  • “Are you leaving Japan?”
    “Yes.” (if true)
  • “Will you install a tuner later?”
    “No.”

How to Switch to a Cheaper Plan (Instead of Canceling)

If you want to keep NHK but reduce the cost, ask to switch to the terrestrial-only contract.

Example phrase in Japanese (with furigana):

  • 衛星えいせい契約けいやくから地上ちじょう契約けいやくに変更へんこうしたいです。
    I would like to change from the satellite contract to the terrestrial contract.

Refunds If You Paid in Advance

If you leave Japan or no longer require the service, NHK may grant a partial refund on unused prepaid months.

You will typically need:

  • A completed cancellation form
  • Your bank account information

Refunds are not guaranteed, but many residents successfully receive them.

If Someone Knocks on Your Door from NHK

This happens fairly often. Remaining polite but brief is completely acceptable. You don’t need to explain in detail, and you do not need to open the door fully.

Here are natural responses you can use:

  • 今いまは契約けいやくできません。
    I can’t make a contract right now.

  • テレビはありません。
    I don’t have a TV.

  • 後あとで考かんがえます。
    I’ll think about it later.

You do not need to sign anything on the spot. Keeping responses short and calm is perfectly accepted in Japan.

Summary

NHK can feel confusing at first, especially the difference between a fee, a contract, and what qualifies as a “tuner.” But once you understand the basics, the process becomes much clearer. Whether you choose to keep, change, or cancel your contract, you can handle everything smoothly and without stress.

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