If you’ve done some shopping in China, you may be able to claim back part of the tax when you leave. China’s tourist VAT refund scheme returns a percentage of what you spent on eligible goods. Here’s how it works.
Who qualifies
- Overseas visitors (including travellers from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan) who stay in mainland China for fewer than 183 days.
- You must buy from “Tax Free” designated stores — look for the sign or ask staff before paying.
- There’s a minimum spend (commonly around ¥200 in a single store on the same day) to qualify.
- Goods must be unused and taken out of the country within a set window (typically 90 days of purchase).
The refund is a percentage of the price (the VAT portion, minus a service fee), so expect to get back roughly 8–11% in practice.
Getting the paperwork in the store
- Tell the cashier you want a tax refund before paying.
- Show your passport.
- They issue a Tax Free Application Form along with the receipt — keep both safe and don’t pack the goods deep in checked luggage.
Claiming at the airport
Do this at your final departure point from mainland China:
- Go to the Customs counter before check-in (or as directed) with your passport, forms, receipts, and the unused goods available for inspection.
- Customs stamps your forms.
- Take the stamped forms to the tax refund counter (usually after security/immigration) to collect your money — by card or, sometimes, cash.
Tips
- Arrive early — refund desks can be slow, and you don’t want to miss boarding. (departure tips)
- Keep goods accessible — customs may want to see them, so don’t bury them in your hold bag.
- Bring every original receipt and form; photocopies won’t do.
- Refund rules and thresholds vary slightly by city, so confirm the local minimum when you shop.
It’s a little admin, but on a big purchase the refund is well worth the ten minutes.
