🇵🇱 Tax Free in Poland: The Complete Guide
Poland, boasting a rich past and lively culture, ranks highly among traveler destinations. A significant benefit for tourists shopping in Poland is the opportunity to reclaim the 23% Value Added Tax (VAT) on items bought. Think of it as a discount for tourists on everything you buy! This guide assists you in navigating that process.
Unsure what Tax Free is? Have Questions? ==> What is Tax Free?
Poland Tax Free Rules
VAT Rate in Poland
Poland's standard VAT rate is 23%, with certain goods reduced to 8% and 5%.
Who Can Shop Tax Free in Poland
A tourist that resides outside of the EU, permanently.
Minimum Amount Per Receipt
You must purchase goods to be taken with you out of the EU for at least 200 PLN (~$50 USD) for each transaction.
How Long Until Refund Expiry
You must take your purchased goods out of the EU within three months of purchase (at the end of the third month).
Are you a retail store? See how Pie VAT can help you maximize your tourist success.
Learn more here: Tax Free for Retailers
How to shop tax free in Poland: A step by step guide for tourists
At the Store: When making a purchase, inform the store personnel that you are a non-resident tourist and would like to avail of the tax-free shopping benefit. They will help you with the necessary paperwork.
Before Departure: Ensure that the goods are with you and ready for inspection. Keep the Tax Refund Cheque handy for the customs process.
With Pie VAT: you will use our app instead of manually filling out numerous forms!
When you depart Poland
Departing Poland At your point of departure, present the Tax Refund Cheque and the goods for customs inspection.
Receiving Your Refund Once your Tax Refund Cheque is approved, you can cash it in the currency of your choice at Keflavik Airport. Other departure points typically offer mail-refund services.
With Pie VAT: after you obtain the stamp, just upload a photo of it to the app - simple!
Receiving your refund: Once you have approval from Customs (usually a stamped form), to receive your refund, may need to go to the tax free operator's office and present your stamped forms. Usually the refund can be returned to a credit card, bank account, or e-wallet. Refund times may take up to a few weeks.
With Pie VAT: withdrawal of your VAT refund is digital (through the Pie VAT app), and refunds are generally received within 24 hours!
Tax Free Tips
Look for Tax Free Shopping Signage:
Participating stores will often display "Tax Free Shopping" signs. Sometimes these are stickers on windows or doors. Additionally, some stores will have small tax free displays on the counters in the store.
Keep your receipts:
Be sure to keep your receipts, just in case. Without the receipt, you may be denied a Customs stamp.
Time it right:
Sometimes it may take a bit of time at the airport to find the Customs and obtain the required Customs stamp. There may be lines as well, so please plan ahead.
Pack Smart:
You may be required to show your purchased goods when you obtain the Customs stamp (export verification). Therefore, be sure to stop by for the stamp before checking in your bags and packing your purchased goods in an easily accessible place. You can always adjust or repack after you receive the stamp.
Don't be shy to ask for help.
Our in-app customer support team is available 24/7 to help answer any questions about your claim, required documents, eligible purchases, or anything else!
