The standard VAT rate in the Czech Republic is 21%. Czech Republic will reimburse between 12% and 16% of the amount you spend during your trip on products subject to standard VAT rates. The minimum purchase threshold that qualifies you for the VAT refund is 2001 CZK.
Eligibility
- Non-EU Resident: To be eligible, you must be a permanent resident of a country outside the European Union.
- Minimum Purchase Amount: The total value of goods purchased in a single day at one store must exceed 2,001 CZK (Czech Koruna) to qualify for a refund.
- Time Limit: The goods must be exported from the European Union within 30 days of the purchase date.
- Shop at "Tax-Free" Stores: Look for shops displaying a "Tax Free Shopping" sign, or ask at the counter if they offer this service. Not all retailers participate.
- Get the VAT Refund Form: At the time of purchase, ask the sales assistant for a VAT refund form. You will need to provide your personal details and passport information.
- Customs Validation: When you are leaving the Czech Republic (or the last EU country on your trip), you must get your VAT refund form validated by a Customs official. This is a crucial step. You will need to show your passport, the purchased goods (which must be unused), and the original receipts.
- Claim Your Refund: After getting your form stamped by Customs, you have a few options to receive your refund:
- Cash Refund: You can receive an immediate cash refund at a designated refund office, often located at airports or border crossings.
- Credit Card Refund: You can mail the validated form and receipts back to the refund agency (like Global Blue or Planet), and the refund will be credited to your credit card.
- Mail: Some retailers or refund agencies may also allow you to mail the forms and receipts to them for a refund by check.
- No Customs Stamp, No Refund: The Customs stamp is mandatory. Without it, you will not receive your VAT refund.
- Allow Extra Time: Be sure to arrive at the airport with enough time to complete the customs validation process before your flight.
- Goods Must Be Unused: Customs officials will want to see that the items are new and have not been used.
