Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Services: In general, if someone in the service industry does a super job for you, a
small tip of a euro or two is appropriate...but not required. If you're not sure whether (or
how much) to tip for a service, ask your hotelier or the TI.
Getting a VAT Refund
Wrapped into the purchase price of your Irish souvenirs is a Value-Added Tax (VAT); it's
about 23 percent in the Republic and 20 percent in Northern Ireland. You're entitled to get
most of that tax back if you purchase your goods at a store that participates in the VAT-re-
fund scheme. In Ireland, you do not have to meet a minimum purchase amount in order to
qualify for a refund.
Getting your refund is usually straightforward and, if you buy a substantial amount of
souvenirs, well worth the hassle. If you're lucky, the merchant will subtract the tax when
you make your purchase. (This is more likely to occur if the store ships the goods to your
home.) Otherwise, you'll need to:
Get the paperwork. Have the merchant completely fill out the necessary refund doc-
ument, called a “Tax-Free Shopping Cheque.” You'll have to present your passport. Get
the paperwork done before you leave the store to ensure you'll have everything you need
(including your original sales receipt).
Get your stamp at the border or airport. Process your VAT document at your last
stop in the European Union (such as at the airport) with the customs agent who deals with
VAT refunds. Arrive an additional hour early before you need to check in for your flight, to
give you time to find the local customs office—and to stand in line. Keep your purchases
readily available for viewing by the customs agent (ideally in your carry-on bag—don't
make the mistake of checking the bag with your purchases before you've seen the agent).
You're not supposed to use your purchased goods before you leave. If you show up at cus-
toms wearing your new Irish sweater, officials might look the other way—or deny you a
refund.
Collect your refund. You'll need to return your stamped document to the retailer or its
representative. Many merchants work with a service, such as Global Blue or Premier Tax
Free, that has offices at major airports, ports, or border crossings (either before or after se-
curity, probably strategically located near a duty-free shop). These services, which extract
a 4 percent fee, can refund your money immediately in cash or credit your card (within
two billing cycles). If the retailer handles VAT refunds directly, it's up to you to contact the
merchant for your refund. You can mail the documents from home, or more quickly, from
your point of departure (using an envelope you've prepared in advance or one that's been
provided by the merchant). You'll then have to wait—it can take months.
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