🇩🇰 Tax Free in Denmark: The Complete Guide
Denmark, known for its captivating history and vibrant cultural scene, is a top destination for travelers. An added advantage for those shopping in Denmark is the chance to get a refund on the 25% Value Added Tax (VAT) charged on purchases made. This is essentially a bonus for tourists, offering savings on every item purchased. Our guide will help you understand and make the most of this tax-free shopping opportunity in Denmark.
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Denmark Tax Free Rules
VAT Rate in Denmark
Denmark has a standard Value Added Tax (VAT) rate, known locally as "moms." The standard VAT rate in Denmark is 25%, which is among the highest in Europe. This rate is applied to most goods and services.
Minimum Amount Per Receipt
The minimum amount required for a VAT refund in Denmark is 300 DKK (Danish Krone) per receipt. This amount is subject to change, so it's advisable to check for the most current threshold.
Who Can Shop Tax Free in Denmark
Tourists and non-EU residents can claim a VAT refund on purchases made in Denmark, provided they export these goods out of the EU within a certain timeframe, usually three months.
How Long Until Refund Expiry
Generally, you have up to three months to claim your VAT refund. This period is calculated from the end of the month in which you made your purchase. For example, if you buy goods on any day in June, you have until the end of September to complete the refund process.
Are you a retail store? See how Pie VAT can help you maximize your tourist success.
Learn more here: Tax Free for Retailers
How to shop tax free in Denmark: A step by step guide for tourists
At the store
In Denmark, whenever you're making a purchase and wish to benefit from tax-free shopping, remember to request this service from the retailer. It's likely that you'll need to present your passport or inform the retailer of your non-EU residency to verify your eligibility for tax-free shopping.
Be aware that not all retailers in Denmark participate in the tax-refund program. Therefore, it's a good idea to look out for signs indicating "Tax-Free Shopping" or to inquire directly with the store staff to confirm their participation in the scheme before you finalize your purchase.
Before departure day: Be sure to complete any refund forms or documented steps before you the day you depart. Do not lose your receipts, and when you pack, be sure to keep your purchased goods easily accessible.
With Pie VAT: you will use our app instead of manually filling out numerous forms!
When you depart the EU
In Denmark, make sure you have completed all the necessary forms for tax-free shopping before you exit the European Union. When you arrive at your departure point, which is typically an airport, your next step is to find the Customs office, unless the tax-free operator has specified a different procedure.
At the Customs office, you will need to present all your filled-out forms, along with your passport and other travel documents. Additionally, you should have the items you've purchased on hand for inspection. The Customs officials will review these documents and goods to validate and approve your request for a tax-free refund.
With Pie VAT: after you obtain the stamp, just upload a photo of it to the app - simple!
Receiving your refund: Once you have approval from Customs (usually a stamped form), to receive your refund, may need to go to the tax free operator's office and present your stamped forms. Usually the refund can be returned to a credit card, bank account, or e-wallet. Refund times may take up to a few weeks.
With Pie VAT: withdrawal of your VAT refund is digital (through the Pie VAT app), and refunds are generally received within 24 hours!
Denmark Tax Free Tips
Look for Tax Free Shopping Signage:
In Denmark, stores that participate in the tax-free shopping program typically make it known by displaying "Tax Free Shopping" signs. You might find these signs in the form of stickers placed on the store's windows or doors. Furthermore, some of these stores might also have small displays or signage on their counters, indicating their participation in the tax-free scheme. These visual cues can help you identify which stores offer the option for a VAT refund on your purchases.
Keep your receipts:
Be sure to keep your receipts, just in case. Without the receipt, you may be denied a Customs stamp.
Time it right:
When traveling from Denmark, it's important to note that locating the Customs office at the airport and obtaining the necessary Customs stamp for your tax-free purchases might take some time. Airports can be busy places, and there may be queues at the Customs office, especially during peak travel times. Therefore, it's advisable to plan ahead and allow extra time for this process to ensure you don't miss your flight or encounter any last-minute rush. This foresight will help ensure a smoother and stress-free conclusion to your tax-free shopping experience.
Pack Smart:
You may be required to show your purchased goods when you obtain the Customs stamp (export verification). Therefore, be sure to stop by for the stamp before checking in your bags and packing your purchased goods in an easily accessible place. You can always adjust or repack after you receive the stamp.
Don't be shy to ask for help.
Our in-app customer support team is available 24/7 to help answer any questions about your claim, required documents, eligible purchases, or anything else!
