How Much Is VAT Refund in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

Paris is a city that attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. With its rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and world-class shopping destinations, it is no wonder that Paris is a popular destination for travelers.

If you’re planning to visit Paris and you’re wondering about the VAT refund policy, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll be discussing how much VAT refund you can expect in Paris.

What is VAT?

VAT stands for Value Added Tax which is a consumption tax added to goods and services at every stage of production and distribution. The tax rate varies from country to country and also depends on the type of goods or services being sold.

What is VAT Refund?

VAT refund is a process where tourists can claim back the VAT paid on purchases made during their visit to another country. This process allows tourists to recover some of the money spent on goods and services during their stay.

VAT Refund in Paris

If you’re a non-EU resident visiting Paris, then you can claim back the VAT paid on purchases made in France. The standard VAT rate in France is 20%, but some items such as food, books, and public transportation have a reduced rate of 5.5% or 10%. To qualify for a VAT refund, your purchases must meet certain criteria:

  • The total purchase value including tax must be over €175.
  • The products must be exported outside the European Union within three months from the date of purchase.
  • You must provide proof of your eligibility by showing your passport and travel documents.

How much can you expect to get back?

The amount you can expect to get back depends on the purchase price and the applicable tax rate. The VAT refund rate in France is 12% for goods and 10% for luxury items such as jewelry, watches, and perfumes. This means that if you purchase a luxury item for €1000, the VAT refund would be €100.

How to claim your VAT refund?

To claim your VAT refund in Paris, follow these simple steps:

  1. Ask the retailer for a “Tax-Free Shopping” form when making your purchase.
  2. Show your passport and travel documents to the retailer and have them fill out the form.
  3. At the airport, go to the customs office before checking in your luggage.
  4. Show your goods and receipts to customs officials for inspection.
  5. Get your Tax-Free Shopping form stamped by customs officials.
  6. Visit the designated VAT refund office at the airport and present your stamped form along with your passport.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re planning a trip to Paris, it’s good to know that you can claim back some of the money spent on purchases through VAT refunds. Just remember to keep all receipts and ask for Tax-Free Shopping forms when making purchases. With proper planning and documentation, you can enjoy shopping in Paris while also getting some money back.