🇳🇴 Tax Free in Norway: The Complete Guide
Norway, with its breathtaking natural beauty and a rich tapestry of history and culture, is a popular destination for tourists. An added benefit for those indulging in retail therapy in Norway is the possibility of obtaining a tax refund on the Value Added Tax (VAT) charged on their purchases. This guide will help you navigate the tax-free shopping landscape in cities like Oslo, ensuring you make the most of this opportunity.
Norway Tax Free Rules
Minimum Amount Per Receipt
To qualify for a VAT refund, your purchase at a single store should be at least NOK 315. This threshold is relatively low, making it easier for tourists to benefit from tax-free shopping.
VAT Rate in Norway
In Norway, the VAT rate is 25% on most goods and services. The displayed prices in stores are inclusive of VAT.
Who Can Shop Tax Free in Norway
Tourists, except those residing in Sweden, Denmark, or Finland, can receive VAT refunds ranging between 12 - 19%. This makes shopping in Norway particularly advantageous for international visitors.
How Long Until Refund Expiry
You must take your purchased goods out of Norway within one month (30 days) of purchase.
Are you a retail store?
See how Pie VAT can help you maximize your tourist success.
How to shop tax free in Norway: A step by step guide for tourists
At the store
Whilst you're shopping, remember to request tax-free at the time of purchase. You might need to present your passport or inform the store of your residence outside Norway to verify your eligibility for tax-free shopping.
It's advisable to look out for the Pie VAT tax-free shopping sign or to check with the store staff to ensure they offer the Pie service before you finalise your purchase.
Heading on your travels on business or vacation and need some more information on using Pie VAT? - We've got you covered here.
Be sure to complete the documented steps within the app. 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 Norway
You can complete the steps at a time to suit you and then when you get home (outside of Scandinavia) you can take photos of the items and the geo-location proves export of the items - that's it - make sure it's within the 30 day time limit however!
Receiving your refund: Once we've received your claim submission - we aim to approve claims within 24-48 hours. 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 with 7-10 days!
Norway Tax Free Tips
Look for the Pie VAT Signage:
In Norway, stores that are part of the Pie VAT network usually make it known by displaying "Pie VAT" signs. These signs are often found as stickers on the store's windows or doors. Additionally, inside some of these stores, you may also notice small Pie VAT displays or signage on the counters, indicating their participation in our tax-free program.
Keep your receipts:
Be sure to keep your receipts, just in case.
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!
