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Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged on most goods. Many overseas visitors take advantage of the Retail Export Scheme (often called Tax-Free Shopping) to reclaim VAT on goods purchased for export outside the EU.
Retail Export Scheme
Please note that not all shops operate the Retail Export Scheme, and those that do often set a minimum purchase level. You are likely to be charged an administration fee for making a VAT refund. This will be deducted either as a percentage of the purchase price or a flat rate amount.
You must fill in a form at the time of purchase and present it to Customs at the final point of departure from the EU and have your goods available for inspection. You are advised to contact the airline/shipping company in advance in the case of purchases that cannot be taken as hand baggage.
NB: Visitors leaving Britain for a final destination within the EU are not eligible to receive VAT refunds. Eligible travellers must be leaving the EU before the end of the third month following the purchase. For example, goods purchased on 31 March would have to be exported by 30 June.
There are now several companies operating VAT refund schemes on behalf of retailers for non-EU visitors. FEXCO, for instance, provides a VAT refund service for business travellers. For further information contact:
FEXCO Tax Reclaim
Fexco Financial Services Centre
Killorglin
Kerry KHQ 100
Ireland
Tel: 0800 393 858 (UK freephone)
Web: www.fexco.com
Refunds are made by cheque or credit card and some companies offer cash refunds from refund booths at a number of airports, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Glasgow and Stansted Airports on departure from the UK. It is also possible to obtain refunds at some destinations outside the EU.
For detailed information, see 'A traveller's guide to VAT refunds on shopping in the UK ' at www.hmce.gov.uk/public/vatrefunds/vatrefunds.htm. |
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