Can I get the VAT/Tax back?

atalosstoo

I have bought an excursion for a February trip in Norway. I paid in local currency online using my credit card and as Norway is not in the EU I wondered if I can apply to get the local tax (25%) back. If so, how would I do that?
What do people think?

DTDfanBoy

Tax refunds are normally only available if you are taking goods out of the country, I don't think I've ever visited a country which gave tax refunds on services.

Norway is part of the EEA so if you're a UK resident I doubt you be able to claim VAT back at all

Doshwaster

That's right. VAT refund schemes usually only apply to goods which are being exported. If we could all get the tax back on holidays booked outside the EU then I think someone would have mentioned it!

Here's some info on VAT free shopping in Norway
http://www.visitnorway.com/uk/what-to-do/shopping-in-norway/tax-free-shopping-in-norway/

daveyjp

You can claim VAT back only on goods you purchase, I have done it. Filled a form out and received cash from a Tax Officer who visited the ship before we left the final port.

You don't get the full VAT as there is a transaction charge to pay, but its always nice to get something back.

zagfles

DTDfanBoy wrote: »

Tax refunds are normally only available if you are taking goods out of the country, I don't think I've ever visited a country which gave tax refunds on services.

I have, in Israel tourists don't pay tax on hotels whereas locals do.