Claiming a VAT Refund in Thailand – Tourist Guide with Faster Processing via TDAC

ByAdmin

Are you planning a trip to Thailand? it is essential to understand how the VAT refund for tourists works. Many visitors do not realize they are eligible for a tax refund when purchasing goods in Thailand. By learning the conditions and refund process, you can save money and make the most of your shopping experience.

With the pre-arrival Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), airport procedures are quicker, giving you more time to complete the VAT refund steps with ease.

VAT refund

What is VAT in Thailand?

 Value-added tax (VAT) in Thailand is a 7% consumption tax applied to the sale of most goods and services for tourists. These taxes are refundable under certain conditions, making shopping more affordable.

Who can claim a VAT refund in Thailand?

To qualify for a VAT refund:

  • You must not be a Thai national or have a Thai residence.
  •  You must leave Thailand via an international airport.
  •  You must not be an airline crew member on duty.
  •  You must shop at stores displaying the “VAT refund for tourists” sign.
  • You must carry the goods out of the country within60 days of purchase.

Conditions for VAT refund Eligibility

To claim a VAT refund in Thailand, tourists must follow specific guidelines:

  • Spend at least 2000 baht (including VAT) per store per day
  • Ask the store to issue a VAT refund application form (P.P.10) and provide that original tax invoice on the purchase date.
  • Show your  passport when making purchases
  •  Present your goods and the P.P.10 form to the customs officer at the airport before check-in.

For high-value items like gold, jewelry, watches, or glasses over 10000 baht, tourists must hand-carry these items and present them again at the VAT refund office after passing immigration.

Required documents for VAT refund

  • Passport
  • Form P.P10
  • Original tax invoices
  • Goods/things Purchased
  • Boarding Pass 
  • Flight Details

How to apply for a VAT refund in Thailand? 

  1. Shop at a store with a VAT refund for tourists sign and spend at least 2000 baht per day.
  2. Ask the store for PP 10 and original tax invoices on the Purchase day
  3.  Keep the purchased goods, form P.P10, and receipts ready in your carry-on, not checked bags.
  4.   Go to the customs inspection counter at the airport before check-in and get your form stamped
  5. For high-value items over 10000 baht, show them again at the VAT refund office after immigration.
  6. Submit the DAS stamp form, receipts, and goods (if required) at the VAT refund office after passport control.
  7. Choose how you want your refund: cash, credit card, or bank draft.

Where to get your VAT refund?

At departure, you have a few options:

  •  Claim a refund in cash (for an amount up to 30000 baht).
  •  Receive a bank draft (USD, EUR, GBP, or JPY)
  • Opt for a credit card refund (Visa, MasterCard, or JCB).

For refunds over 3000 baht, only bank draft or credit card transfer is allowed. Not that processing fees, bank postal, or transfer will be deducted from your refund.

Common reasons VAT refund is denied

Many tourists get rejected due to:

  •  Leaving from a non-International Airport
  •  Goods not inspected by customs
  •  Taking goods out after 60 days from purchase
  •  missing or incorrectly filled form
  •  Goods not purchased from VAT-participating stores

How the TDAC helps in the VAT refund process

By completing the TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card) online within 72 hours before arrival, travelers can EXPEDITE their airport procedures, ensuring a smooth experience when presenting goods and documents for VAT refunds.

In essence, while TDAC does not directly alter VAT refund eligibility or processes, it enhances the overall efficiency of airport procedures, indirectly supporting tourists to complete VAT refund claims more conveniently.

Final tips

  • Arrive early at the airport to allow time for customs and refund procedures.
  •  keep all forms and receipts in a safe, accessible place
  •  If your are refund is over 30000 baht,  only Bank Draft or credit card refund is allowed

FAQs About VAT Refund 

Yes, while TDAC is mainly for immigration, submitting it before arrival speeds up airport clearance. This gives tourists more time to complete the required steps for VAT refunds, such as customs inspection and document submission.

No, showing the TDAC confirmation is not required for VAT refunds. However, having it completed ensures faster movement through immigration and customs, which supports a smoother VAT refund experience overall.

Conclusion

Claiming a VAT refund in Thailand is a smart way to save money on your trip. Just follow the simple application steps and carry the required documents. And yes, if you are planning a trip to Thailand, you must submit your Thailand digital arrival form before arrival for faster processing. Whether you are in Thailand buying gifts, electronics, etc., from stores that mention a VAT refund for tourists, don’t miss the chance to get your money back as a VAT refund. 

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