VAT Refund (Export): Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how residents traveling outside Switzerland can claim a refund on the value-added tax paid for goods purchased locally.
This scheme allows residents to claim back the tax paid on goods when they take those items out of the country.
Who it's for
This is available for residents who are traveling abroad.
What you get
You can receive a refund of the VAT (Value Added Tax) paid on goods purchased within Switzerland that are intended for export to another country.
What it costs you
While the refund itself is a recovery of tax, the process requires you to obtain an official customs stamp at the border to prove the goods have left the country.
The catch to know
You cannot claim a refund on every purchase, as a minimum purchase amount must be met to qualify for the refund.
How to apply
- Collect your purchase receipts from retailers while shopping.
- Ensure you have the goods with you when you travel toward the border.
- Present your goods and receipts at the border to receive an official customs stamp.
- Follow the retailer's specific instructions for processing the refund with that stamp.