If you are a foreign tourist visiting Turkey, you may be eligible for a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund on your purchases. VAT is a tax that is added to the price of goods and services in Turkey, and the standard rate is currently 18%, 8% and 1%. Here’s what you need to know about getting a VAT refund in Turkey:
Who is eligible for a VAT refund?
Foreign tourists who are not residents of Turkey are eligible for a VAT refund on their purchases of goods that will be taken out of the country within 3 months of the purchase date. The purchase must be made at a store that participates in the VAT refund program, and the total amount of the purchase including VAT must be at least 118.00 TL.
How to get a VAT refund?
To get a VAT refund, you must follow these steps:
- Ask the store for a VAT refund form (it should be available at the cashier desk).
- Fill out the form with your personal information, passport number, and the details of your purchase.
- Keep the original receipt and attach a copy of it to the form.
- Show your passport and the goods to the customs officer at the airport or border when you are leaving Turkey.
- Get your form stamped by the customs officer, and then bring it to the VAT refund desk to get your refund.
How much will you get back?
The VAT refund amount is calculated as follows:
- For purchases made by credit card, the refund will be credited to the same card.
- For purchases made in cash, the refund will be paid in cash.
- The VAT refund amount is 18% of the purchase price including VAT.
- A handling fee of 5.5% of the VAT refund amount will be deducted.
Conclusion
Getting a VAT refund in Turkey can be a great way to save money on your purchases. Just make sure to keep all your receipts and follow the steps above to ensure a smooth refund process.
