The VAT (Value Added Tax) is a hidden surcharge (about 20%) already added on to just about every retail item sold. For large purchases (over €175) on items like jewelry, clothes, antiques, or artwork, a buyer may get at least a partial refund of the VAT.  The eligible purchase(s) can consist of multiple items totaling more than the threshold amount, but they must be made from the same store on the same day.

To qualify for the refund, the buyer must not be a European Union (EU) citizen.  Therefore, a non-EU passport needs to be presented to the retailer at the time of purchase.   

Before making a large purchase, determine if the vendor is set up to either process the VAT refund (also called détaxe) on the spot or if it needs to be done at the airport or other departure point upon leaving the EU.  Most large department stores (Printemps, Galeries Lafayette, etc.) and vendors with a significant non-EU clientele make it easy by guiding the shopper through the process.  Otherwise, the buyer must be vigilant in complying with the rules by collecting the proper VAT refund forms and original receipts at the point of purchase for submission at a later time.

Lastly, the buyer may be required to present the goods, receipts, travel documents, and détaxe forms at the airport or other departure point.  Before check-in, look for the staffed “Détaxe/Tax Refund” office or automated “Pablo” kiosks at the airport to initiate the transaction.

The amount of the refund is usually about 12% of the purchase price of the goods, or 60% of the VAT.

There are private companies that, for a commission, will process the VAT refund.   Check out: www.globalrefund.com.

For more information on Paris travel, check out the Paris blog posts of The Traveling Professor at www.travelingprofessor.com.