I am traveling to Italy for a conference, and a hefty 21% VAT is attached to the registration. From what I can see a conference registration VAT should be refundable, but how on Earth does one go about claiming it? The organizers have provided a receipt (and the VAT is 360 EUR, not insignificant). I have yet to travel there for the meeting, but wish to have my ducks in a row before departure. Thanks in advance!
Posted by
Tilburg, Netherlands
2829 posts
Usually, services delivered in Europe are not subject to VAT refunds at all! Only good that are exported as new to somewhere out of EU can have VAT refunded. You also pay VAT at tolls, public transportation tickets (except air) etc.
Posted by
OP
Chicago, IL
3 posts
Oh gosh, yuck. Thanks for this. Searching on the Internet, I see the British government has ways to provide a refund. It can be claimed as a business-related tax, perhaps I should go through one of those agencies?
Posted by
Pa and Italy
4152 posts
You might want to contact a company who specializes in VAT refunds to get the full, correct answer. Here is what I found on the web as to who qualifies for business VAT refunds. http://www.eurovat.com/conf.htm You might want to have your company check to see what they will qualify for. Donna
Posted by
San Francisco Bay Area (USA)
15199 posts
I think the VAT refund for service costs incurred in the course of business (such as conferences) apply only to member states within the EU that also apply VAT or States outside the EU, which apply VAT and have reciprocity agreement with the EU.
There is a EU Directive issued in 2008 that governs such instances. I'm not sure if the US would qualify for such a refund, since the US does not have a Value Added Tax in place.
Posted by
OP
Chicago, IL
3 posts
Thanks all! Steve