Claiming Vat Back?

[blondiewonder]

Hi

How do i go about claiming VAT back, does this have to be done at the airport or can it be done in Bangkok, does it take long? as we have saved reciepts for everything, and we are here for 4 months. Can you keep the receipts still, even after you've claimed the VAT back, or is it best to claim the VAT back through my company accounts back in the UK. complete novice, never done it before, any advice much appreciated.

Thanks

Emma

[sgunn65]

Its actually very easy but I fear I am going to disapoint you anyway.

You have to claim it back at the airport.

Before you go through security you goto the VAT Office which is clearly signposted.

You have to show the goods.

They stamp your paperwork (the vat refund form you had completed in the shop!!!)

You then go through security to the VAT office planeside and repeat the process and get your money.

Simple as long has you have the goods, receipt, and vat form with you.

However this is the bit that is going to disapoint you.

You have to claim it within 60 days of purchase!

I am also disapointed as I have spent a shed load of money and don't leave for 6 months. Oh well the up side is I am in Thailand for 6 months and that has to be worth something.

[blondiewonder]

thanks for the reply, they never make things easy do they. not thais in particular, just the red tape bullshit you get all over the world, but yeah your are right, 4 months in thailand is reward enough!!

em

[Firefan]

Sgunn; good explanation!

One other thing;

Other people I have assisted (at airport) also though that they could refund VAT on everything (restaurant bills/hotel Etc.) and I had to make it clear to them that the rules are only GOODS being new+original packing with VAT form filled at shop can get refund.

Now; the "new"/original packing part can be discussed if one buys say a watch/laptop or whatever that needs checking/installation Etc. but it makes good sense to put it back in original packing prior having to show it at VAT office at airport.

Cheers!

[torrenova]

You could hold off making any large purchases for goods to be exported until you are within the timeframe prior to your departure.

[thaihome]

I think you have to have entered on a visa exempt or tourist visa as well. Dit it once about 4 years ago for a watch, very easy but they did run you around a bit from place to place.

TH

[blondiewonder]

thanks everyone for all for the advice

regards

emma