Does Germany do tax-free shopping?

In Germany the amount paid for merchandise includes 19 % value added tax (VAT). The VAT can be refunded if the merchandise is purchased and exported by a customer whose residence is outside the European Union.

Is there tax-free shopping in Germany?

Request tax-free shopping when making a purchase. Show your passport or inform the retailer of your non-EU residency. When visiting cities like Berlin, Munich or Frankfurt - look for stores displaying a tax-free shopping sign or confirm with the store before making your purchase.

Can tourists get a tax-refund in Germany?

Tax-free refunds are available to people traveling to Germany for touristic purposes. In other words, if you have a residence permit for the country you are visiting, getting a refund will not be possible.

What is the tax-free amount in Germany?

There is no income tax liability if your taxable income does not exceed the basic tax-free allowance. The basic tax-free allowance for single taxpayers is €10,908 in 2023 (2024: €11,784). For jointly assessed spouses/partners, the basic tax-free allowance doubles to €21,816 (2024: €23,568).

Is Germany a tax-free country?

Germany's tax system covers both residents and, under specific conditions, non-residents with income generated in the country. Corporations, both public and private, are subject to corporate taxation, while exemptions exist for certain non-profit organizations and religious institutions.

European Tax Refund Process in Frankfurt, Germany

How much tax-refund will I get in Germany?

The average tax refund you can expect

The Federal Statistical Office has determined that in 2021, out of approximately 14.9 million people in Germany who submitted a tax declaration, 12.9 million received a tax refund. On average , this amounted to 1,172. You can expect an average tax refund of 1,172.

Is Cyprus tax-free?

How much is income tax in Cyprus? Cyprus-tax residents pay general and foreign taxes on their income worldwide at tax rates ranging from 20‑35%. Companies pay a corporate income tax of 12.5%. There is a special regime for retirees: 5% of the pension payments if they exceed €3,420 per month.

How to get a tax-refund in Germany?

Receive Your Refund

Visit any Global Blue Refund Office or Kiosk in Germany. Present the validated Tax Free Form and get your refund. For an automatic refund, check the payment details selected in store or saved on your Global Blue App and MCC.

How to claim a tax-free refund?

VAT refunds for overseas visitors in British shops have now been removed. Overseas visitors can still buy items VAT-free in store and have them sent direct to overseas addresses. Claiming VAT refunds on items you can take home in your luggage has also ended.

Do you get tax-free before or after check in?

Stamp your epay Tax Free forms at your last destination

At the airport, before checking in, look for a Customs office or validation kiosks. You will have to present there all the forms collected during your trip, which may be from different EU countries. You may also be asked to show the goods you have purchased.

Can I put tax-free items in luggage?

In principle, tax-free goods should be carried as carry-on baggage rather than checked baggage. Upon departure, it is necessary to undergo inspection at the customs counter at the airport.

How to get VAT refund at Munich airport?

Present the certificate along with your purchases and receipts at the customs office. You will also be required to present your passport and a plane ticket issued for the current date. Present the customs office confirmation at a Global Blue station at the airport. Here you can obtain your VAT reimbursement.

Can I get my taxes back if I leave Germany?

As a rule of thumb you can get a refund if the level of income after your departure is lower than your German income. You can also expect a refund if you did not work for some time at all after you left. If your level of income increases after your departure it can cause you to have to pay extra in Germany.

How to claim tax free at Frankfurt airport?

Simple refund of value added tax

Please present your stamped and fully completed Tax Free forms at our refund counters. The VAT amount will then be refunded to you, minus a small processing fee. Further information is available at zoll.de or by calling +49 351 44834 510.

Is duty free shopping tax free?

Use duty free shopping when you need to buy something quickly at the airport without extra taxes or import duties. It's perfect for souvenir or travel essentials, perfumes, liquor, and more.

Do you need to show items for VAT refund?

Customs agents may ask you to present your unused goods to verify that you are, indeed, exporting your purchase — if your purchases are inside your checked luggage, stop by customs before you check it. Allow plenty of extra time at the airport to deal with the VAT refund process.

Which country has the highest VAT refund?

For instance, you can expect a higher VAT refund in Hungary because the country currently has the highest VAT rate in Europe with a standard rate of 27%⁴. Conversely, Luxembourg has the lowest standard VAT rate, which is at 17%⁵. So, you might see a smaller VAT refund percentage in Luxembourg.

What is the airport tax refund?

If you are not a citizen of that country, you are not required to pay this tax. Therefore, when you travel abroad and shop, you are eligible to receive a refund for the VAT paid on the items purchased in that country.

Do tourists get VAT refunds in Germany?

The VAT can be refunded if the merchandise is purchased and exported by a customer whose residence is outside the European Union. Please note that in order to qualify for tax-refund the merchandise has to be exported within three months of purchase. The VAT refund is voluntary and can be refused.

Is Germany tax free for foreigners?

All resident individuals are taxed on their worldwide income. Non-resident individuals are taxed (in case of investment and employment income usually by withholding) on German source income only.

How does tax-free shopping work in Germany?

How does tax-free shopping work in practice? Even when you claim tax exemption for your purchases you must first pay the full purchase price including the turnover tax. The retailer will reimburse you the turnover tax once he receives proof that the goods have been properly exported.

Which European country is tax free?

Tax-free countries in Europe (or those with minimal tax burdens for residents or businesses) include Monaco, Liechtenstein, Cyprus, and San Marino.

What is the 60 day rule in Cyprus?

The 60 days rule

(i) the individual stays in Cyprus for at least 60 days in the tax year, (ii) exercises a business and/or is employed in Cyprus and/or holds an office with a Cyprus tax resident company at any time during the tax year, (iii) maintains (by owning or leasing) a permanent home in Cyprus.

Why is Cyprus a tax haven?

Cyprus has an extensive network of double taxation treaties with over 60 countries. These treaties are crucial in preventing double taxation of the same income in two different jurisdictions, which can be advantageous for companies with cross-border operations.