I traveled in Ireland and Northern Ireland in August. I intended to apply for VAT refund at Dublin airport on my way home. However, I found the airport pretty confusing, and was misdirected several time. I wound up going through customs and being told I had missed the chance to apply for VAT refund. I was told I could do it from home, on line.
I have not been able to figure out how to do this. Can the VAT refund be applied for on line? Any suggestions as to how this can be done?
Posted by
Bainbridge Island
3287 posts
How much did you buy that it is worth going through the hassle of getting the refund?
Posted by
New York, NY
4071 posts
Did you get the paperwork done before you left the stores in which you bought products whose tax you want refunded? You need the stamped VAT refund document(s). Read this from Rick Steves to see if you've gotten the paperwork you need: https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/money/vat-refunds
VAT minimum spending per eligible item in Ireland is €30; in Northern Ireland, it's £30. The VAT is Ireland is 23%; in N Ireland, it's 20%. https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/money/vat-rates-in-europe
More info for individual visitors seeking a VAT refund: https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/individuals/travelling/travellers-leaving-eu/guide-vat-refund-visitors-eu_en
Posted by
Oxford, United Kingdom
5456 posts
I am not sure what the "customs" are that you are referring to that you went through. If it is the US pre-clearance, then you would have been too late at the airport.
There re various different schemes for VAT refunds and you haven't mentioned which one(s) you used, eg Fexco card,
Posted by
Freedonia
16277 posts
I applied for VAT refund in June--of 2016. I'm still waiting.
Posted by
Indianapolis, IN, USA
154 posts
It is easy to miss the VAT Refund Kiosk as it is set back in an alcove at the Dublin Airport. If you have the receipts from the merchants where you shopped and if they include the VAT information on them you can still get your VAT refund. Usually the merchant will give you an envelope which has the address for VAT refunds as you can mail your receipts from the USA to this address if you miss the kiosk. You will need to fill out the information at the bottom of the receipts. Make sure your information is correct especially the credit card information where you want your refund credited. In case you did not get a mailing envelope the address is:
Premier Tax Free
8 Claremont Road
Sandymount
Response Paid
Dublin 4
Ireland
Some merchants accept and use the FEXCO Horizon Card rather than the VAT form on reciepts. You need to fill out some information and swipe this card at a self-service kiosk at the airpot (found at the VAT Refund Kiosk) or you can register your card online and file your claim that way. If you got one of these red cards and used it when you made purchases all the information you need to register the card and get your refund online is on the card.
I have used the kiosk at the airport and have mailed my receipts to the above address. It does take awhile to get your refund.
Good Luck! if you need anymore information you can e-mail me privately.