VAT Refund

Last updated 2007-11-07

If you're a foreigner shopping for certain goods in Thailand, why not take advantage of the VAT refund? On large purchases, this could be a significant amount (7 percent), so it may well be worth shopping at a designated VAT refund retailer. These will have a sign saying 'VAT Refund For Tourists' but if you're in doubt, just ask in store.

So many non-Thais don't bother to claim the refund, or don't even realise they are not required to pay VAT on goods over 5000 Baht but for those who do claim the refund, it's a nice boost to your cashflow when you leave the country and surprisingly easy to do.

Here's how it works... At participating stores, you will need to present your passport when asking for a VAT refund form. Make sure you keep the tax invoice the store issues to you. When leaving via an international airport, take all the paperwork to the VAT refund desk and you will be given your money. That's all there is to it.

Important considerations:

• Minimum total value of goods must be 5000 Baht
• Minimum value per store per day is 2000 Baht
• You must claim within 60 days of purchase
• A refund fee of 100 Baht will be charged
• You must leave Thailand via an international airport
• High value items such as jewellery and watches must be inspected again by the revenue officers
• You cannot a refund claim for gemstones
• Amounts over 30,000 Baht can only be paid by draft or credit to your credit card

People who cannot claim:

• Those with a diplomatic passport and resident in Thailand
• Air crew departing Thailand in the course of their duties
• You have been in Thailand for more than 180 days in the current calendar year
• Thai nationals

You should leave yourself enough time to apply for the refund at the airport just in case there is a queue.

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