How to claim a VAT refund in Thailand

«We love to shop in Thailand!» — That’s how one of the popular local songs goes. And indeed, what tourist doesn’t enjoy shopping in the land of eternal summer? Not only are many things sold here cheaper (even considering the exchange rate), but you can also get up to 7% of the purchase amount back! This is called a VAT Refund (Value Added Tax). Agree, it’s nice to get part of your money back. But there are certain conditions and pitfalls here as well. In this article, we’ve collected the most important points you need to pay attention to so that you don’t encounter any issues or difficulties when claiming your refund.

Who is eligible to receive a 7% VAT refund

Getting money back for your purchase is definitely a pleasant bonus. But there are several restrictions. You will receive the payment if:

The item was purchased in a store marked with the VAT Refund sign.
The purchase was made no earlier than 60 days before departure.
The total spent on the item exceeds 2000 ( 61.56 USD) (and in some cases 5000 ( 153.90 USD)) Thai baht.
You are departing Thailand through an international airport.
You are not a citizen/resident of the Land of Smiles or an aircraft crew member currently on duty.

Attention! In some cases, you may be required to present the packaging and tags of the product in undamaged condition.

How and where to get a VAT Refund

The VAT refund is issued upon departure at international airports. Officially the refund is 7%, but in reality, the amount will be 4–7%, depending on the total purchase value. The more expensive the item, the more you’ll get back.
Airports where you can receive the VAT refund:

Suvarnabhumi, Bangkok
Don Muang, Bangkok
Chiang Mai
Phuket
Hat Yai
U-Tapao
Krabi
Koh Samui

If you plan to receive a VAT Refund, remember these points:

Bring your passport — without it, you cannot issue VAT documents.
Pay attention to store windows. Items bought at markets or small shops are not eligible for refund. In large shopping malls, look for the sign “VAT Refund for Tourists” on the storefront, near the cashier, or at the entrance.
When purchasing, ask the seller to fill out the P.P.10 form — full name VAT Refund Application for Tourists.
Be sure to take the receipt — you will need to present it at the airport.

Attention! When filling out the VAT Refund Application for Tourists form, carefully check all data: name, date, purchase amount, passport number. If there are mistakes, you may be denied a refund.

VAT Refund at Suvarnabhumi Airport

To receive the refund at Suvarnabhumi Airport, follow this simple procedure:

On the 4th floor, where check-in for departing flights from Bangkok takes place, walk right to the end of the hall. Here you’ll find the VAT Refund office. Staff will ask you to present the item, the certificate obtained at the store, your passport, and the purchase receipt.
If all documents are in order, a red stamp will be placed on the certificate. Be attentive — without this mark, the refund will not be issued.
Pass through passport control and in the Duty Free zone near gates D1–D4 find the VAT Refund counter. It’s easy to locate — just follow the signs.
At the counter, after presenting your receipt, passport, and certificate, you will receive the money as a bank check, transfer to a credit card, or cash in local currency.

Important! You can exchange Thai baht into dollars or euros at the bank located in the Duty Free zone.

Attention! At Suvarnabhumi, you can complete VAT refund documents both before check-in (if you plan to transport purchases in your luggage) and after you have your boarding pass. At Phuket Airport, you must first check in your luggage and pass passport control, so you will need to take all your purchases in carry-on baggage.

As you can see, everything is not as scary or complicated as it may seem. Be attentive, and let shopping bring you only joy.