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Save with tax free on exchanges

written by
Natasha Machado
19/6/2024
Read in
5 min
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Traveling is a dream for many, but the costs can be high. To help save money, tax free is an excellent option when visiting Europe. Discover how it works and save extra money on your purchases during your exchange or study abroad program.

What is tax free?

Tax free is a program that allows the reimbursement of up to 17.5% of taxes paid on purchases made by tourists in Europe. When you buy products at participating stores, local taxes are charged. However, as a visitor, you will not enjoy the services for which these taxes are intended.

Several countries recognize this and offer tax free as an incentive to attract more tourists. By requesting a refund, you recover part of the amount spent, making your purchases even more advantageous.

Where is tax free available?

Tax free is offered in all European Union countries that are part of the Schengen Area. However, some countries not part of this agreement, such as Cyprus, Bulgaria, Ireland, Romania, and Malta, also adopt this practice. If you're planning a Learn language abroad Or a University abroad in these destinations, take the opportunity to benefit from tax free.

• Italy - up to 15%

• England - up to 12.5%

• Ireland - up to 15.5%

• Portugal - up to 14.5%

• Malta - up to 10%

• Germany - up to 13.6%

• Austria - up to 14%

• Belgium - up to 14%

How does tax free work?

The process for obtaining a tax free refund is quite simple. Just follow these steps:

When shopping at a participating store, request the tax free form from the attendant. Fill in your personal information and purchase details.

Keep forms and receipts carefully until the end of your trip. At the airport or border crossing when leaving the European Union, present all documentation to the authorities at the refund desk.

After verifying your documents and possibly inspecting the goods, the refund will be processed in local currency or dollars. Do not dispatch the goods before stopping by the counter, as they may ask to see.

Planning ahead

To take full advantage of the tax-free benefit, it's important to plan ahead. Here are some tips:

1. Research the stores participating in the program in your destination, so you already know where to shop.

2. Separate a folder or envelope to keep all forms and receipts organized.

3. Check the opening hours of the refund desk at the departure airport.

4. If possible, arrive at leisure before your return flight to avoid stress.

5. Have your travel documents in hand, such as a passport, to expedite the process.

6. Consider requesting a refund the day before your flight if it's too early or late.

A little bit of preparation can go a long way in ensuring that you get your money back without a hassle.

Is it worth using tax free?

It's definitely worth taking advantage of the tax free benefit during your exchange or study program in Europe. The extra money can be used to finance other travel expenses or even make new purchases at airport duty free.

Be Easy

Make the most of your exchange or study abroad program with Be Easy Exchangeo. Our consultants are ready to help you plan every detail and ensure that you don't miss out on savings opportunities, such as tax free. Contact us today and take the first step towards the international experience of your dreams!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy