Vat Refunds

[mandl]

VAT refunds for tourists.

Can somone give me details on how this works? Planning a trip to LOS early next year. On my last trip in Feb 04, I wasn't aware of this until I saw a sign at the airport as I was leaving the country. I assume you need receipts for anything you are claiming. Should I get the refund form when I arrive and fill it in as I go?

Perhaps someone can post a (partial) list of examples of items that qualify for the refunds or a web site link that discusses this.

Thanks,

mandl

[Guest fj2003]

shops which are offer vat refund have a special sticker thsat thwey will refund

if you claim for refund they have to fill a paper form that yu have to show up at they airport when you leave

at the airport there is an office they can provide you with fully details just drop in when you arrive and ask for information but it is mostly like in every country the same procedure

have fun on shopping

[damnaam]

Hiya.

Can't help you out with the list I'm afraid but I can tell you the process is both quick and easy.

My experience - I bought a rather nice digital camera at Panthip earlier this year and the shop provided me with both a receipt AND a form which must be presented to the VAT refund people. There is a time limit between purchase and refund claim on departure - approx 2 months if memory serves but could be 3.

On departure, go to the office, declare what you want a refund for (with the paperwork..) then once you're through security etc you visit another booth and claim your refund. The form says that you can get it in many forms including Euro and Sterling or even refund on your credit card but for some reason there was a 'ploblem' that day so I had to take my refund in Baht and hit the dutyfree.

I got a refund on the camera but the SD card and other accessories do not qualify.

Hope this helps.

Cheers....

[mandl]

Ok - thanks to both of you for the information. I'll ask about the refund forms when I make my purchases.

mandl

[warriors]

Do not forget to have the goods you bought with you and not locked away in your suit cases. They will want to see the thai silk or what ever. Maybe the day you go in they may be kind to you and not ask but do not take a chance. Oh and they charge you for processing it too, that comes off the refund. Nothings free in LOS except the CLAP

[Axel]

Have a look in here:

http://www.rd.go.th/vrt/howwill.html