Can You Collect VAT Refund If You Aren't Flying Directly Home from Ireland?

Non-EU visitors to Ireland can file a VAT refund at the airport as they leave Ireland. This refund returns the value added tax (aka VAT) applied to souvenir items purchased by tourists that leave the Republic of Ireland within 90 days of purchase.

If you aren't familiar with the VAT (listen to podcast episode 142) see this article for full information about what qualifies for a refund and how to receive it.

How to Get a VAT Refund if You Don't Fly Directly Home from Ireland

If you are traveling on to another European country from Ireland you may not have the opportunity to validate your receipts at the VAT service counter or kiosk. So how can you get your Irish VAT refund?

Ship Items Home

If you are buying bulky, breakable, or expensive items (think woolens, crystal, or pottery) have the items shipped to your home. The VAT will be removed from the price you pay, but you will have to pay shipping.

This probably won't save you money, but it will free up room in your suitcase and, if something breaks or gets lost in transit, you can receive a replacement.

Travel to another EU Country

If you are visiting multiple EU countries you can turn in your Irish VAT at the last European country you visit before heading home.

In some countries this area may be before check-in, while in others it will be past security. Do your research and know where you will find the Customs or VAT office in the airport you are departing from.

The large refund agencies, Planet and Global Blue, will have desks or kiosks for VAT refunds in major airports.

Customs may need to inspect the items so you will need to be sure they are in your carry-on and not checked baggage. Items will also need to be in their original packaging and unused.

Tip: Be sure to keep everything organized and well documented if you will have VAT refunds from multiple countries.

Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales & England are not part of the EU and do not offer VAT refund

Many people travel to the UK from Ireland. Unfortunately, the UK are not part of the EU you can not file your Irish VAT when departing the UK

So what can you do if you travel home from the UK?

If your VAT purchase was processed with a refunding agency, you can file the necessary information directly with that agency. You may be required to have receipts and any paperwork notarized.

Each agency operates differently. {see show notes for links}
Planet/FexCo information
Global Blue support

If you made a purchase over €75 but did not receive a tax back form you can have the documentation stamped by your customs authority and return it to the store to request a VAT refund. Just remember that stores are not required to participate in the VAT refund program and your request may be ignored.

Is It Worth It to File a VAT Refund After Leaving Ireland?

Unless your VAT refund is large you may find it is not worth the time or effort to try to receive your VAT refund from home as the refund agencies do take a fee for their services.

Traveling in Ireland podcast Episode 228

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Jody Halsted

Jody Halsted is the charismatic host behind the popular Traveling in Ireland Podcast and the Ireland Family Vacations website. With a deep passion for Ireland and an infectious enthusiasm for sharing its wonders, Jody has become a trusted voice in the realm of Irish travel.

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