(This guide considers using intermediaries for the tax refund)
Country VAT rates
20% Standard VAT rate
20% Optics – Glassware and sunglasses
10% Textiles and clothes
10% Leather goods and carpets
10% Shoes, bags and optics
10% Food
How much you need to spend minimum: 120.00 TRY (4,04 euro or $4,46 US)
Discover Turkey’s allure as a top tourist destination, offering diverse products and competitive prices for shoppers. What many visitors might not know is that they can claim a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund, known as KDV in Turkey, at the airport upon departure. In this concise guide, we’ll outline the simple steps to ensure a smooth VAT refund process.
What is the VAT (KDV) Rate in Turkey?
The standard VAT rate in Turkey is 20%, but certain goods and services enjoy reduced rates or exemptions. Essential items like basic foodstuffs, books, and select medical goods have a reduced VAT rate of 8%, while exports and international transportation are VAT-exempt. Remember, VAT is already included in displayed prices, and eligible visitors can claim a refund on the VAT paid.
Who is Eligible for a VAT (KDV) Refund?
Non-resident visitors leaving Turkey permanently are typically eligible for a VAT refund. Tourists and foreign nationals temporarily residing in Turkey, departing the country, can also qualify for a refund on goods purchased during their stay.
Ensure you meet conditions such as having a valid passport, purchasing from a VAT-registered business participating in the refund scheme, and exceeding the minimum purchase amount set by the government (currently 118.15 TL).
VAT Refund Calculator
| Refund | Percentage | VAT Rate |
|---|---|---|
| ₺ 0.00 | 20% | 20% |
Understanding Tax Refund Calculations
Understanding how tax refunds are calculated is crucial. While it might seem that a 20% VAT refund would result in a 20% reimbursement from your purchase, it’s not quite that simple. The calculation follows this pattern: Starting with 100 Euro + 20% equals 120 Euro. However, 120 Euro – 20% doesn’t equal 120 Euro. Instead, it’s 120 Euro – 16.66% which equals 100 Euro.
Keep in mind that the tax refund amount will be further reduced after accounting for administration fees.
How to Claim Your VAT (KDV) Refund?
If eligible, claim your VAT refund at the airport before departing Turkey. Follow these straightforward steps:
1. You must purchase from tax free stores in Turkey (this is indicated with a blue sign, for Global Blue or Red sign for the ‘Tax Free Zone’ intermediary) or ask for a sales tax return check + keep original receipts showing VAT paid during your stay. Bring your passport or resident card
Note: We are only known with the VAT refund in Turkey through Global Blue. They will charge a service fee but will pay you directly. The Turkish Government has no public information on the official process.
2. Head to the Customs Office with your receipts and passport (before check-in).
3. The officer will verify documents, check purchased goods, and stamp your purchases.
4. After passing through passport control, go to Global Blue office or the red ‘Tax Free Zone’ competitor to receive your cash.
Check-in your luggage and proceed to your departure gate.
Documents Required for the Digital Customs Validation
Ensure you have the following documents for the digital customs validation process:
- Passport or valid travel document with personal details.
- Tax-Free Form received from the retailer, fully completed.
- Purchased goods, as customs officials may verify them.
Having all the necessary documents is vital for claiming your VAT refund, so confirm procedures with the retailer beforehand.
In conclusion, claiming your VAT (KDV) refund in Turkey is a seamless process that can add extra value to your shopping adventures. Follow the steps, keep your documents organized, and enjoy the benefits of a VAT refund as you bid farewell to the captivating land of Turkey. Safe travels and happy shopping!
Tip & Advice
- Do not use or eat the items you bought before you leave Turkey.
- There might be lines, so give yourself an extra hour before your flight.
- Take pictures of the stamped refund forms. If you have any problems when talking to the refund company, you’ll need these pictures as proof.
Question and Answers
Customs Office In International Airports In Turkey
Do tourists get VAT refund in Turkey?
Yes, tourists and non-resident visitors can get a VAT refund in Turkey on eligible purchases made during their stay. This refund can be claimed at the airport upon departure, subject to meeting specific criteria.
Is Turkey VAT free?
No, Turkey is not entirely VAT free. Value Added Tax (VAT), known as KDV in Turkey, is applicable to most goods and services. The standard VAT rate in Turkey is 18%, but some items may have reduced rates or exemptions.
How much is VAT in Turkey?
The standard VAT rate in Turkey is 18%. However, certain essential goods and services, like basic foodstuffs, books, and select medical goods, have a reduced VAT rate of 8%. Additionally, exports and international transportation are exempt from VAT.
Is shopping in Istanbul tax-free?
Shopping in Istanbul is not entirely tax-free. However, tourists can get a VAT refund on eligible purchases made in Istanbul and other cities in Turkey, subject to meeting the necessary conditions.
Do tourists pay tax in Turkey?
Yes, tourists may have to pay VAT (Value Added Tax) on their purchases in Turkey. However, eligible visitors can claim a refund on the VAT they paid by following the VAT refund process at the airport before leaving the country.
What goods are duty-free in Turkey?
Duty-free shopping is available at airports and international ports in Turkey. Duty-free shops offer a selection of goods such as alcohol, tobacco, perfumes, and certain luxury items that can be purchased without paying import duties and taxes. These items are intended for travelers who are leaving the country and are duty-free within specific limits and regulations.