VAT Refund (Tax Free): Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how non-EU residents can reclaim the VAT paid on goods purchased while traveling in Spain.
This scheme allows visitors to reclaim the tax paid on certain goods purchased within Spain.
Who it's for
This program is designed specifically for non-EU residents who are shopping in Spain. If you live outside of the European Union, you may be eligible to claim back a portion of the tax you spent on physical items during your visit.
What you get
When you shop in Spain, the price of goods includes Value Added Tax (VAT). If you qualify, you can receive a refund of the VAT paid on these goods. To receive this benefit, the items you purchased must be taken out of the country with you.
What it costs you
While the refund itself is a return of your own money, there is a specific administrative requirement you must fulfill to succeed. You must obtain an official customs stamp on your receipts. Without these official stamps, you cannot prove that the goods have actually left the country, which is a requirement for the refund process.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is the specific method required for processing. You must use the DIVA system at the airport to handle your paperwork.
How to apply
- Collect all your original purchase receipts from the various shops where you bought your items.
- Ensure you have the necessary customs stamps on those receipts to validate your purchase.
- Locate and use the DIVA system at the airport to process your documents.
- Follow the prompts at the airport terminal to finalize your tax-free claim.