Twanda
Registered User
Posts: 1
(11/16/03 2:22 pm)

VAT Question and Duty Free shopping

---

A couple of years ago I traveled to Scotland and spent a TON of money on small souvenirs. Naturally, I paid a hefty VAT. I understood that to get a refund on the VAT I had to have receipts of over $200 for each item. Nothing I bought was that expensive individually, so I did not apply for it. Can someone tell me how this system works in Ireland? Also, how does duty free shopping at the airport compare to shopping in the cities and towns? Thanks for your help!

Michele Erdvig
ezOP
Posts: 1941
(11/16/03 11:22 pm)
 
Re: VAT Question and Duty Free shopping

---

Hi Twanda,

You can get back a little over 17 percent of VAT on purchases in Ireland (this excludes things you consume like food, car rental, etc.). If you plan on buying small items you should think about purchasing several of them at one time. If you spend a euro here and a euro there you won't get VAT forms. But if you spend 10, 20 and up it will be worth your while to ask for VAT forms as you shop. Follow the instructions on the forms and either turn them in at the airport, get your money back at the airport or send them in after returning home. There are several different plans of VAT refunds. Be patient and be prepared for a wait to get the VAT back.

Duty free shopping has a limited amount of items available so if you see something you must have buy it then and there. In the duty free shops you won't have to pay the VAT. The prices are comparable to shops in the cities and towns (minus VAT).

Michele

Twanda
Registered User
Posts: 3
(11/18/03 4:01 pm)

Re: VAT Question and Duty Free shopping

---

Thank you so much for this useful information! Now I only have to wait 8 more months to use it. I'm so excited about going to Ireland. My husband has been before, but I never have.I'm sure I'll be asking more questions as the time grows nearer.

Michele Erdvig
ezOP
Posts: 1946
(11/18/03 11:50 pm)

Re: VAT Question and Duty Free shopping

---

Hi Twanda,

You're very welcome. It is good that you are gathering your info now. Then when you do finally get to Ireland your trip will go much more smoothly. I will look forward to any other questions you might have as your trip progresses.

Michele