Tax free purchasing in the UK, but exporting through third country?

jammin_2

Hi guys,

Not perhaps a question for here I know, but if anyone knows the answer I'd be eternally grateful.

Here's the thing:

A tourist from Hong Kong arrives in the UK as a visitor and buys an iPhone 4 from the Apple store in London. It is £510 inc VAT. He is given a Global Refund receipt, as the Apple retail stores participate in this scheme.

A few days later, the tourist travels to Ireland. After a further few days, the tourist departs Ireland (and the EU) on a flight to Switzerland. He stays a few days then returns to Hong Kong.

At which point is VAT reclaimed?

dzug1

The form gets stamped when leaving Ireland. You then (depending on what was agreed with the retailer at the time of purchase) send it to the retailer or an agency for a refund cheque - almost certainly in sterling - or claim a cash refund (usually at one of the money changing outfits) Whether Ireland can process a cash refund for something not bought there I don't know.

Spursman180

AFAIK it is handled at the final exit point of the EU.

phatbear

What you need to do is ask a good looking customs officer im sure there will be one along in a moment

phatbear

Hello im here!!!

All vat refunds are handled at the final point of exit from the EU so therefore in Ireland, as previously stated.

Also they can claim the vat back on anything else, except services, whilst in the EU.