Dublin

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Tax Refunds

Information on value-added tax (VAT) refunds available to non-EU visitors and the procedures to claim them for qualifying purchases.

Sections

1. Overview of VAT Refunds in Ireland

  • What is VAT? VAT (Value-Added Tax) is a consumption tax applied to most goods and services in Ireland. The standard VAT rate is 23%, though some goods and services may have reduced rates (e.g., 13.5%, 9%, or 0%).

  • Who is eligible for a VAT refund? Non-EU residents are eligible to claim a VAT refund on goods purchased in Ireland that are exported out of the EU within 3 months of purchase. This applies to tourists and visitors who are not permanently residing in the EU.

2. Eligible Purchases

Not all purchases qualify for a VAT refund. Hereโ€™s what you need to know:

Eligible Items

  • Clothing
  • Jewelry
  • Electronics
  • Souvenirs
  • Luxury goods
  • Other tangible goods that you can take with you when leaving the EU

Non-Eligible Items

  • Services (e.g., hotel stays, dining, tours)
  • Goods that are consumed in Ireland (e.g., food, beverages)
  • Items purchased for business purposes
  • Goods that are not exported out of the EU

3. Costs and Fees

  • Refund Amount: The VAT refund is typically 23% of the purchase price, but this may vary depending on the VAT rate applied to the item.
  • Processing Fees: Refund providers (e.g., Global Blue, Fexco Tax Free) may charge a service fee (usually 2-5% of the refund amount). This fee is deducted from your refund.
  • Currency Conversion: Refunds are often issued in your home currency, but be aware of potential exchange rate differences or conversion fees.

4. Step-by-Step Procedure for Claiming a VAT Refund

Follow these steps to ensure you successfully claim your VAT refund:

Step 1: Shop at Participating Retailers

  • Look for stores displaying a Tax-Free Shopping sign or ask the retailer if they participate in the VAT refund scheme.
  • At the time of purchase, inform the retailer that you want to claim a VAT refund. They will provide you with a Tax-Free Form or an electronic refund voucher (depending on the refund provider they use).
  • Keep your receipts and the completed Tax-Free Form.

Step 2: Validate Your Purchases at the Airport

  • When leaving Ireland (or the EU), you must validate your purchases at the airport to prove that the goods are being exported.
  • Arrive at the airport early to allow time for this process.
  • Go to the Customs Desk or self-service kiosks (if available) before checking in your luggage. Present the following:
    • Your passport
    • Completed Tax-Free Forms or electronic vouchers
    • Receipts
    • The goods you purchased (keep them unused and in your carry-on luggage for inspection)
  • Customs will stamp your forms or electronically validate your refund.

Step 3: Submit Your Refund Claim

  • After validation, submit your refund claim through the refund provider (e.g., Global Blue, Fexco Tax Free). You can do this:
    • At the airport (drop your stamped forms into the refund providerโ€™s designated box or visit their desk)
    • Online (if the provider offers this option)
  • Refunds are typically issued via:
    • Credit card
    • Bank transfer
    • Cash (in some cases, at the airport)

5. Local Considerations in Dublin

  • Participating Retailers: Many shops in Dublinโ€™s city center, particularly on Grafton Street and Henry Street, participate in the VAT refund scheme. High-end stores and department stores like Brown Thomas are popular for tax-free shopping.
  • Customs Validation at Dublin Airport:
    • Dublin Airport has self-service kiosks for VAT refund validation, making the process faster.
    • Ensure you have all your documents and goods ready for inspection.
  • Timing: The airport can be busy, so allocate extra time for the VAT refund process, especially during peak travel seasons.

6. Currency-Related Aspects

  • Refund Currency: Refunds are often issued in your home currency, but you can request to receive it in euros if you prefer.
  • Exchange Rates: Be mindful of exchange rates and conversion fees if you opt for a refund in your home currency.
  • Credit Card Refunds: This is often the most convenient option, but it may take several weeks for the refund to appear on your statement.

7. Tips for a Smooth Refund Process

  • Keep All Documents: Ensure you have your receipts, Tax-Free Forms, and passport ready at all times.
  • Donโ€™t Use the Goods: Goods must remain unused and in their original packaging until after you leave the EU.
  • Check Refund Providers: Familiarize yourself with the refund providerโ€™s process (e.g., Global Blue, Fexco) to avoid confusion.
  • Plan Ahead: If youโ€™re traveling to multiple EU countries, validate your purchases at the last EU airport you depart from.

8. Example Costs and Refund Calculation

  • Example Purchase: A โ‚ฌ500 item with a 23% VAT rate.
    • VAT included in the price: โ‚ฌ500 รท 1.23 ร— 0.23 = โ‚ฌ93.50
    • Refund amount (after 3% service fee): โ‚ฌ93.50 ร— 0.97 = โ‚ฌ90.70
  • Final Refund: โ‚ฌ90.70 (or equivalent in your home currency).

9. Useful Contacts and Resources

By following this guide, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to claim your VAT refund in Dublin, Ireland. Enjoy your shopping and safe travels!