Photo: Collected
Last Update: Tuesday December 30, 2025
Vietnam is not only famous for its stunning landscapes, delicious street food, and vibrant culture—it also offers international tourists the chance to claim tax refund (VAT refund) on certain purchases. If you plan to shop during your trip, knowing how to take advantage of the VAT refund system can save you money and make your experience more rewarding.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: eligibility, procedures, refund percentage, where to claim, and even how to enjoy a VIP fast track experience.
1. What is the VAT Refund in Vietnam?
Vietnam applies a Value-Added Tax (VAT) of 10% on most goods and services. To encourage shopping tourism, the government allows foreign visitors to claim tax refund on certain goods purchased in Vietnam when they leave the country.
This means you can get part of the tax you paid back at the airport before departure.
Photo: Collected
You are eligible if you meet the following conditions:
You are a foreign tourist (non-Vietnamese passport holder).
You are not a crew member of the departing flight.
You buy goods at shops registered as VAT Refund Shops (look for the “Tax Refund for Tourists” logo).
The goods must not be banned from export.
The value of goods on a single receipt must be at least 2 million VND (~80 USD).
Goods must be unused and taken out of Vietnam within 60 days from the date of purchase.
Popular items include clothes, handicrafts, jewelry, and high-value souvenirs.
Vietnam’s current VAT is 10%.
The refund percentage is about 85% of the VAT amount. (The other 15% is kept as an administrative fee.)
👉 Example: If you spend 20 million VND (~800 USD) on qualifying goods, the VAT is 2 million VND. You’ll receive about 1.7 million VND back.
Look for stores displaying the “VAT Refund for Tourists” logo.
Ask for a VAT Refund Invoice when you buy your items.
Show your passport when buying
Ensure your name and details match your travel documents.
Go to the VAT Refund Counter before security/customs.
Present your passport, boarding pass, goods, and VAT invoices.
Customs officers may ask to see the actual items.
After approval, you’ll get a VAT Refund Claim Form stamped.
At major airports (Hanoi – Noi Bai, Ho Chi Minh City – Tan Son Nhat, Da Nang, Cam Ranh), visit the refund counters after immigration.
Choose between cash refund (VND) or credit card refund.
Some service providers and premium lounges offer VIP fast track assistance for VAT refunds. This service can:
Help you prepare paperwork in advance.
Skip long queues at refund counters.
Ensure smoother customs clearance.
Sometimes combine VAT refund with fast track airport services like priority check-in, expedited immigration, and lounge access.
If you are a luxury shopper or short on time, this option is highly recommended.
Vietnam was among the first ASEAN countries to introduce a nationwide VAT refund system for tourists (2012).
Not all shops participate, so always check for the Tax Refund logo before buying.
Some travelers prefer credit card refunds, but cash refunds in VND are usually quicker.
The refunded amount can be spent at duty-free shops or on last-minute souvenirs before boarding!
Claiming your VAT refund in Vietnam is a smart way to save money while enjoying shopping during your trip. Whether you’re buying handcrafted souvenirs, silk, or jewelry, following the right procedures ensures you get back part of your spending. And if you want a hassle-free process, consider using VIP fast track services for a smooth, premium experience.
So next time you shop in Vietnam—don’t just bring home memories, bring back some cash too!
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