How Tax Free Shopping Works
Shop Tax Free in Three Easy Steps
Shop at over 300,000 stores across 40+ countries. Get your refund paid in cash or add your payment details online.
01
Go Shopping
- Look for the Global Blue logo in-store
- When paying for your purchases, ask for a Global Blue Tax Free Form
- If you are a Global Blue member, present your Shop Tax Free barcode to store staff. Your details will be filled out automatically
- In some cases you'll need to remember to fill in your details manually. You can see how to fill out a Tax Free Form here
What to look out for...
The standard VAT rate is detailed by country and dependent on goods.
The minimum amount spent by a shopper to get the tax refund in each country.
Eligibility information is available at each destination to inform on the purchasing of Tax Free goods.
02
Get Customs Validation
- When you depart from your shopping destination, go to the nearest Customs or self-validation Kiosk
- Present your completed Tax Free Form, passport, and original purchase receipts for validation
- Goods should be kept unused, available for inspection
What to look out for...
This time period differs from country to country. The full list can be found on the website and app.
Time period specified on your form for export validation.
Each country has its own regulations to follow in order to obtain a refund.
03
Receive Your Refund
- Add your payment details online to receive the refund automatically
- If you prefer, find a nearby Refund Office displaying the Global Blue star logo, in some cases, this can be a Currency Exchange
- Present your validated Tax Free Form and passport. Receive your refund in cash or to your chosen payment details online. The refund paid is the VAT minus Global Blue’s service fee
Our tips
When shopping give the staff your phone or E-Mail to receive tips and notifications to make sure your process runs smoothly.
Use the Global Blue mailbox located near most Customs Offices. Send your validated Tax Free Form and receipts to Global Blue using our prepaid envelope.
Before sending the documents, we advise you to make a copy of them, and write down the Tax Free Form number (DOC ID) of each Form for your reference.
Save on Shopping at Your Chosen Destination
We're here to help you get the most out of your travels, save on shopping at your destination, and make each trip memorable.
