Berlin: A tourist hotspot for worldwide visitors leveraging Pie VAT
Germany’s captivating landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture are sure to delight you. Whether it's exploring Berlin's dynamic street art or visiting Munich's historic sites, Germany offers endless adventures. However, costs can add up quickly, especially if you love shopping. Fortunately, you can take advantage of VAT refunds to help ease your expenses.
Berlin a Dynamic and historic location
According to Statista, Berlin’s dynamic community, historic landmarks, and world-renowned techno scene have made it one of Europe’s top travel destinations in 2023. That year, Berlin led all German cities in overnight stays, with visitors spending over 10 million more nights than in Munich or Hamburg. The city's international appeal extends beyond traditional tourists; Berlin ranked as the fourth most popular destination for digital nomads worldwide in 2024, surpassing cities like Lisbon, Paris, and Barcelona. It also remains a top destination for inbound tourists across Europe.
Berlin’s iconic landmarks like the Brandenburg Gate and the East Side Gallery are key to its cultural identity. However, attractions like the Museum Island and Berlin Zoo draw significant crowds, with the zoo being the city’s top attraction in 2023. Despite the pandemic's impact on tourism, Berlin remains culturally strong, though it trails other European cities in popularity among younger generations on platforms like TikTok.
Key Stats:
Total Visitors in 2023: Berlin welcomed approximately 12.1 million guests in 2023, marking a recovery from the pandemic.
Overnight Stays: These visitors accounted for around 29.6 million overnight stays.
Top Source Markets: The UK led international visitors with 1.3 million overnight stays, followed by the USA with 1.2 million and the Netherlands with 843,000.
Growth in Tourism: The number of overnight stays by international guests exceeded 40% for the first time since 2019, reflecting Berlin's growing global appeal.
Future Expectations: Berlin is expected to reach 30 million overnight stays in 2024, boosted by significant events such as the European Football Championships.
Pergamon Museum: 700,000+ visits in 2023
Neues Museum: 660,000+ visits in 2023
Berlin Zoo: Nearly 4 million visits in 2023
This guide will show you how to save money while making the most of your German getaway.
Tax-Free Shopping in Berlin
Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, offers not only rich history and cultural experiences but also a thriving shopping scene. For visitors looking to indulge in retail therapy while enjoying tax-free savings, Berlin is an ideal destination. You can explore everything you need to know about tax-free shopping in Berlin in our dedicated page.
Tax-Free Shopping in Berlin: The Complete Guide
Understanding VAT Rates in Germany
Germany’s VAT system is straightforward with two main rates. The standard rate is 19%, applicable to most goods and services. The reduced rate is 7%, which applies to essentials like food, books, cultural services, hotel stays, and medical care.
Refer to the table below for a quick overview of the rates and the types of goods they apply to. This will help you better understand your potential savings when shopping in Germany.
How much VAT is refunded in Germany?
The standard VAT rate is 19% of the purchase price! However, it's important to keep in mind that administrative fees or minimum purchase requirements may apply. The actual amount of the VAT refund in Germany may vary based on individual circumstances and the specific refund process used. You will usually receive only a portion of your VAT back.
Who Can Benefit from Tax-Free Shopping in Germany?
You may be eligible for a VAT refund on purchases made in Germany if you meet the following criteria:
You are a resident of a non-EU country, including the UK, with valid identity documents.
You're an EU resident leaving the EU for at least 12 months.
You don't have a German residence permit valid for more than three months.
You export the goods in your personal baggage within three months of purchase.
The total purchase value, including VAT, exceeds 50 euros.
There are additional restrictions to consider. Some goods, due to their nature, are not eligible for VAT refunds. They include:
Spare parts for equipping private vehicles of any kind, such as bumpers, exterior mirrors, tow ropes, or first aid kits,
Items for the supply or maintenance of a vehicle, such as fuel, oil, or care products, and
Services that you receive in Germany, including bus or train tickets, restaurant or hotel bills, prepaid mobile services, and other products.
How to Get a VAT Refund in Germany
When departing the European Union to return to the UK, ensure you have the following to claim your VAT refund after your trip to Germany:
The export papers (Ausfuhrbescheinigung) or Tax-Free Shopping Check.
The original store receipt.
The purchased items, unused and in their original packaging with price tags intact.
Once you have these items prepared, follow these straightforward steps to complete your VAT refund process.
Step 1: Complete the Export Papers or Tax-Free Shopping Check
When shopping in Germany, ask the retailer for an "Ausfuhrbescheinigung" (export papers) or a Tax-Free Shopping Check and complete the form, including signing it. You may need to show your passport to confirm eligibility. If your purchased items are in checked luggage, inform the airline check-in staff to ensure your bags are tagged for customs inspection, as this is crucial for obtaining a VAT refund. For carry-on items, proceed through security as usual.
Step 2: Obtain a Customs Stamp
Present your carry-on items at the customs office for inspection, and ensure the export papers are stamped. Without this stamp, you won’t be able to receive your VAT refund.
Step 3: Process your refund - Tax Free Shopping with Pie
Various private companies like Pie VAT handle all the logistics of processing tourist tax refund claims and payments, for a service fee.
Pie offers a digital-first solution to simplify tax free shopping for tourists. Our easy-to-use mobile app allows you to submit VAT refund claims instantly with rapid processing and funds transferred to your chosen payment method within 24 hours in most cases.
Get your claim via email or text, upload any customs documents required, and receive your refund quickly and reliably. No more waiting months to access your savings!
