VAT refund in the Netherlands: A complete guide to tax-free shopping in the Netherlands for tourists

If you are tired of the rain from the UK, the Netherlands can be a good getaway trip. It's a beautiful country that offers British travellers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic landscapes. You will always have things to do there! Not to mention, it's a shopper's paradise with its bustling markets, high-end boutiques and designer stores.

However, when you are on your shopping spree in the vibrant and bustling Leidsestraat of Amsterdam, you might soon realise that you have to pay 21% for the VAT in the Netherlands. That's a lot of money!

But rest assured! The VAT refund system in the Netherlands allows non-EU residents, including the British, to claim back the tax paid on goods purchased during their stay! This comprehensive guide will help you understand the process and get the most out of your VAT refund in the Netherlands. So, whether you're planning to shop for souvenirs or splurge on some designer fashion, read on to find out how to get your VAT refund in the Netherlands.

How much is VAT in the Netherlands?

In the Netherlands, you will most likely encounter the high or general VAT, which is 21%. You might also see two other special rates. The first is the 9% rate, which applies to food and drink, agricultural products and services, medicines, books, daily newspapers and magazines, and other products and services mentioned in this extensive list. The second one is the zero rate, which is applied to goods and services considered as exports, such as international transport and goods sold to non-EU countries.

You can refer to the table below for a quick check:¹

Tier	Rate	Applicable goods
Zero rate	0%	Cross-border transactions services: services for the international carriage of goods or work on goods that are exported to countries outside the EU.
The low tariff	9%	Food and drink, agricultural products and services, medicines, books, daily newspapers and magazines, and other products and services.
The high or general tariff	21%	Any other products.

How much VAT is refunded in the Netherlands?

Generally, the refund amount would be calculated based on the applicable VAT tier, regardless of whether it's a general or low rate. However, you should be aware that VAT refund service providers or retailers may charge administration fees for processing the refund. These fees can vary and may be deducted from the refund amount. Hence, the actual VAT refund amount you receive may differ in each case.

Who is eligible for tax free shopping in the Netherlands?

If you want to get VAT refund in the Netherlands, you must meet these conditions:²

• You can provide proof of identity showing that your residence or usual place of residence is outside the EU.
• You will take the products with you in your personal luggage within three months after the end of the month in which you made the purchase.
• The total value on the invoice is at least €50, including VAT.

How to get VAT refund in the Netherlands?

Upon your arrival in the Netherlands, you should start thinking about getting a VAT refund right away. The process to get a VAT refund begins as soon as you make your first purchase. The reason you need to be aware of getting the refund will be clarified in the section below.

Generally, there are two ways you can apply for your tax refund in the Netherlands: offline or online. If you would like to apply for VAT refund online, you should download the 'NL Customs VAT’ app before your arrival in the Netherlands. Make sure to register beforehand: you will need your passport for the registration

Receive a tax exemption form

Without the app: When making a purchase, be sure to request a receipt and confirm in advance that the retailer or supplier will refund the VAT.

With the app: If you want to reclaim VAT, you should ask the retailer to issue the invoice in your name and register it digitally right after purchase. It is worth noting that some retailers in the Netherlands are not yet ready for the digital VAT reclaim process. In such cases, you will need to reclaim the VAT using the offline process described above.

Have the forms stamped

Without the app: Ask Customs to sign the receipt when you leave the EU. Customs will check your eligibility for a VAT refund. After this process, you should send the signed invoice to the retailer or your tax refund intermediary.

With the app: There are several steps to take:

1. Go to the area near the customs desk with your app opened.
2. Turn on 'Bluetooth' and 'Location'/'Location Services'.
3. Request validation for your VAT refund application in the app. The app tells you whether you must first report to the customs desk with your purchases.
4. Once your application has been validated in the app, you can receive your money back.

However, these steps are currently ONLY available at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. If you are in other airports, you must go to the customs desk with the app.

Obtain a VAT refund

If you apply for a VAT refund offline, the retailer or tax-refund intermediary will process the refund.

If you apply through the app and your application is validated, you can receive your money back. So make sure you check your app regularly to update any missing documents.

There you have it! The simple guide to getting your VAT back in the Netherlands so you can save for your future adventure. Next time you plan a getaway trip to the Netherlands, remember to use this article as a guideline to get your VAT refunds and make your shopping spree even more rewarding!

Another great news is tourists can receive a VAT refund with the card! However, if the denominated currency of the card (e.g., GBP) is different from the local currency (e.g., EUR), it may be converted automatically. To avoid extra costs on currency conversion, consider receiving your refund with a Wise debit card, which allows you to hold 40+ currencies, including EUR.

Please be aware that tax regulations and procedures may change over time. Always verify the information with official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date guidance.

Get your card now

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Sources used for this article:

1. Tax Administration: VAT tariffs
2. Customs Administration: How do I reclaim the VAT on my purchases?

Sources last checked on 27-Mar-2024.