Global Blue Tax Refund Calculator 2026
Estimate Your VAT Refund When Shopping Abroad
For US travelers based on U.S. Customs & State Dept. guidelines
Enter Your Purchase Information
Your Estimated Tax Refund
Refund Breakdown
How Global Blue Tax Refund Works
✈️ What is VAT Refund (Tax Free Shopping)?
When you shop in countries with Value Added Tax (VAT), the tax is included in the price. As a tourist (non-resident), you can claim a refund of this tax when you leave the country. Global Blue, Planet, and other tax refund services help you reclaim this money — typically 10-15% of your purchase price after their service fees.
- Shop at Tax Free Stores: Look for "Tax Free" or "Global Blue" signs. Request a tax refund form at checkout.
- Complete the Form: Fill in your name, passport number, and home address on the tax refund form.
- Get Customs Stamp: At the airport before check-in, show your purchases and get the customs stamp on your form.
- Claim Your Refund: Visit the Global Blue counter at the airport or drop your form in the mailbox for credit card refund.
- Receive Your Money: Get cash immediately at airport counters, or wait 3-5 weeks for credit card refund.
VAT Refund Calculation Formulas
VAT Contained in Price
Net Price (Excluding VAT)
Your Actual Refund
Effective Refund Rate
VAT Rates by Country (2026)
| Country | Standard VAT | Min. Purchase | Typical Refund |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇫🇷 France | 20% | €100.01 | ~12% |
| 🇮🇹 Italy | 22% | €154.94 | ~13% |
| 🇩🇪 Germany | 19% | €50.01 | ~11% |
| 🇪🇸 Spain | 21% | €90.16 | ~13% |
| 🇬🇧 United Kingdom | 20% | No minimum | ~12% |
| 🇳🇱 Netherlands | 21% | €50 | ~13% |
| 🇧🇪 Belgium | 21% | €125 | ~13% |
| 🇦🇹 Austria | 20% | €75.01 | ~12% |
| 🇨🇭 Switzerland | 8.1% | CHF 300 | ~5% |
| 🇵🇹 Portugal | 23% | €61.35 | ~14% |
| 🇬🇷 Greece | 24% | €50 | ~15% |
| 🇸🇪 Sweden | 25% | SEK 200 | ~15% |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | 10% | ¥5,000 | ~10% |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | 10% (GST) | A$300 | ~10% |
Service Provider Fees Comparison
| Provider | Typical Fee | Refund Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Global Blue | 30-50% of VAT | Cash, Credit Card, Alipay |
| Planet (Tax Free) | 30-50% of VAT | Cash, Credit Card |
| Innova Tax Free | 25-40% of VAT | Cash, Credit Card |
| Premier Tax Free | 35-50% of VAT | Cash, Credit Card |
| Direct Store Refund | 10-20% of VAT | Credit Card only |
Note: Cash refunds at airports typically have higher fees than credit card refunds. Direct store refunds (DIVA system in Italy) often have the lowest fees.
US Customs Duty-Free Allowance
🛃 What You Can Bring Back to the USA
As a US resident returning home, you can bring back up to $800 worth of goods duty-free (per person). Items beyond this may be subject to US customs duty. The VAT refund is separate from customs duty — you can get the VAT refund abroad AND your purchases may still qualify for the US duty-free allowance.
| Category | US Duty-Free Allowance |
|---|---|
| General Merchandise | $800 per person |
| Alcohol | 1 liter (if 21+) |
| Cigarettes | 200 cigarettes (1 carton) |
| Cigars | 100 cigars (non-Cuban) |
| Gifts | Included in $800 total |
Tips to Maximize Your Refund
✅ Do These
- Consolidate purchases at one store to meet minimums
- Request tax refund form at every purchase
- Keep all original receipts
- Choose credit card refund (lower fees)
- Arrive at airport 3+ hours early for processing
- Have goods accessible for customs inspection
⚠️ Avoid These
- Don't pack tax-free items in checked luggage before customs
- Don't miss the customs stamp deadline (usually same day)
- Don't expect refund on used items
- Don't lose your passport or forms
- Avoid small purchases that don't meet minimums
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Global Blue is the world's largest tax-free shopping service. When you shop at participating stores as a tourist, you can request a tax refund form. At the airport, get the form stamped by customs, then claim your refund at a Global Blue counter or by mail. They take a service fee (typically 30-50% of the VAT) and you receive the remainder.
You'll typically receive 10-15% of your purchase price after service fees. For example, in France (20% VAT), you might get ~12% back. In Italy (22% VAT), you might get ~13% back. The exact amount depends on the country's VAT rate, the refund provider's fees, and your chosen refund method.
Each country sets its own minimum. France requires €100.01 per store/day, Italy requires €154.94, Germany only €50.01. The UK has no minimum. You must meet the minimum at EACH store separately — you can't combine receipts from different stores.
Yes! US citizens and residents can claim VAT refunds when shopping in Europe (and other countries with VAT). You must be a non-resident/tourist, make qualifying purchases, get the customs stamp before leaving the EU, and claim your refund within the time limit (usually 3 months).
Credit card refunds typically have lower fees (you get more money back) but take 3-5 weeks to process. Cash refunds at the airport are immediate but have higher fees. If you don't need cash urgently, choose credit card for a higher refund amount.
Without the customs stamp, you cannot get a refund. The stamp proves you exported the goods. Some countries allow stamping within a limited time at their embassy, but this is rare. Always get the stamp before leaving the country!
No — tax-free goods must be unused and in original packaging when you leave. Customs may ask to see the items. If they appear used, worn, or opened, your refund may be denied. Keep items sealed until after customs inspection.
Most countries require you to export goods and get the customs stamp within 3 months of purchase. The refund form is usually valid for 3-6 months after the stamp. If mailing your form, do so within 21 days of getting the stamp.
Generally excluded: services (hotels, restaurants, transportation), items consumed in the country, cars and boats, commercial goods, alcohol and tobacco in some countries. Rules vary by country — when in doubt, ask the store before purchasing.
No! Duty-free shops (at airports, ferries) sell goods without tax included — no refund needed. Tax-free shopping (Global Blue) is for regular stores where VAT is included in prices and you claim a refund later. Both save you money, but the process is different.
Created by OmniCalculator.space — Your trusted source for travel & tax calculators.
Last Updated: January 2025 | 2026 VAT Rates