Basic Information
Save More with Tax-Free Shopping
Traveling abroad? As a non-resident, you could reclaim VAT on purchases, saving up to 25% in Europe and beyond. It’s simple: shop, get your refund, and bring home more of what you love.
Understanding Tax-Free Shopping (VAT Refunds)
What Is Tax-Free Shopping?
Tax-free shopping, or VAT refunds, is a system that enables tourists to reclaim the Value Added Tax (VAT) on eligible purchases made while traveling abroad, provided the purchased goods are taken out of the country and brought back to the visitor's home country. This incentive allows non-residents to save on purchases, encouraging tourism and spending in countries offering VAT refunds.
Who Qualifies for Tax-Free Shopping?
To qualify, a visitor must:
Reside permanently outside the European Union (EU) or in another applicable non-resident area, as indicated by the address in their passport or national identity document.
Be leaving the EU or applicable country directly after their purchase, with goods intended for export out of the region.
Examples:
1.Eduardo lives in Brazil but spends his summers in Portugal. Although he visits Portugal frequently, his permanent address in Brazil qualifies him as a ‘visitor’ for VAT refund purposes.
2.Paul, a Belgian citizen living in Canada, returns to Belgium annually. As a permanent resident of Canada, he is eligible for VAT refunds on goods bought during his visits to Belgium, using his Canadian residence card as proof of residency.
How Much Can Be Saved?
VAT rates vary by country, affecting the amount eligible for refund:
VAT can reach up to 25%, allowing significant savings.
What Is VAT?
Value Added Tax (VAT) is a consumption tax levied at various stages of production and distribution, ultimately paid by the end consumer. Non-residents can recover this tax on eligible purchases made in the EU and other participating countries, thus enjoying reduced costs while abroad.
Why Do Countries Offer VAT Refunds?
More than 50 countries currently support VAT refunds as a means to attract international tourists and encourage spending. This system not only benefits visitors by offering savings but also boosts the local economy by promoting retail activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can I contact for help with my tax refund claim?
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!
Is there a minimum purchase amount to use Pie VAT?
Yes, minimum amounts range depending on the country. Our app will indicate the required minimum.
What currencies are supported for refunds?
We can process refunds in 135+ currencies, including EUR, USD, JPY, CAD, GBP, CNY, and many more. It's important to note that when you choose your desired currency, you won't incur any foreign exchange (FX) fees. Pie VAT takes pride in offering a transparent and fee-friendly service, which means you receive your refund in the currency you select without any hidden charges.
Can I use Pie VAT at any store in a tax free country?
No, Pie VAT can only be used at our retail partners - look for our logo sticker at checkout to confirm if tax-free shopping is available. We have over 1,500 participating stores and are constantly expanding.
How long does it take to get my refund after submitting a claim?
For regular refunds, once your documentation is reviewed and approved, the refund will be sent to you within 24 hours. But that's not all – we also offer the option of "Rapid Refunds", providing instant refunds for those in need of immediate access to their funds.
What documents do I need to provide to get my tax refund?
This varies by country. Typical required documents include your passport, stamped customs forms, receipts, and images of purchased items. Our app provides instructions on the exact verification needed for each destination.