Thanks to Brexit, residents of England, Wales and Scotland are now eligible for Tax Free Shopping in the EU. Hooray!
So, what does this mean?
Tax Free Shopping means that international shoppers can save up to 19% on certain purchases, simply by claiming back the VAT applied when shopping abroad.
Many high street retailers and luxury brands around the world offer tax free shopping services. Items that qualify for VAT refunds include:
- Fashion
- Cosmetics
- Jewellery
- Technology
- Food and drink items
How to know if you’re eligible
To be eligible to shop tax-free in the European Union, Brits must live in England, Scotland or Wales and proof of residency will be required. Shoppers must also meet the minimum spend criteria, which is dependent on the country you’re shopping in.
Any tax free items you buy in the EU need to be brought back to the UK within three months of purchase if you haven’t already used them during your holiday.
How to shop tax free
Shopping tax free in the EU couldn’t be easier… just remember, shop, stamp, claim!
1. Shop
When shopping in a store that offers VAT refunds, remember to ask for a tax free form at the till. You will need to provide proof of your address as well as your passport.
2. Stamp
At the airport or ferry port, you must get your tax free form validated by customs. You may need to present receipts and unused purchases, so pack wisely!
3. Claim
To receive your refund, you must then take your validated form to a refund office, which is usually at your departure point, i.e airport.
Where to shop tax-free
There are so many places you can shop tax-free in the EU, and sites like Global Blue provide a great guide.
Here’s an A-Z of some of our favourite brands available for tax free shopping:
Adidas
Bulgari
Calvin Klein
Dolce & Gabanna
ESPIRIT
Fortnum & Mason
Gucci
H&M
Intersport
John Lewis & Partners
KENZO
Loewe
Massimo Dutti
Nike
Omega
Patek Philippe
Ralph Lauren
Swarovski
Tiffany & Co.
UGG Australia
Vans
Wako
Yves Rocher
Zara
Ready to book?
If, after hearing about all the great shopping opportunities you can get your hands on, you fancy a holiday, why not browse our fantastic deals? With our exclusive online discounts, we have some amazing holidays up for grabs at purse-friendly costs.
Close your eyes and imaging sunbathing in Spain, feeling in love in Italy, sampling gyros in Greece, partying in Portugal, or drinking colourful cocktails in Croatia. The EU is your oyster!
Facebook
Twitter
Email 
