If you shop during your trip to France, you may be eligible to receive a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund when leaving the European Union. This tax is included in the price of many goods, and non-EU visitors can often reclaim part of it when they depart from airports such as Charles de Gaulle Airport.
For travelers who plan to shop for fashion, cosmetics, or luxury items in Paris, understanding the VAT refund process can save a significant amount of money.
Here’s exactly how the system works.
Table des matières:
The Short Answer
✈️ Only for non-EU residents
🧾 Purchases must reach a minimum amount
🛍️ Goods must be taken out of the EU
📍 Refund is processed at the airport before departure
The process is straightforward once you know the steps.
What Is VAT?
VAT stands for Value Added Tax, a consumption tax included in the price of most goods in France.
Typical VAT rates include:
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20% on most products (fashion, electronics, cosmetics)
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Lower rates for certain categories
When tourists from outside the EU export goods, they can claim back part of this tax.
Who Can Get a VAT Refund?
You can claim a VAT refund if you:
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Live outside the European Union
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Are over 16 years old
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Leave the EU within three months of purchase
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Export the purchased goods unused
EU residents usually cannot receive VAT refunds.
Minimum Purchase Amount
To qualify, purchases must reach a minimum amount in the same store.
In France, the minimum is generally:
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€100.01 in a single shop on the same day
The store must provide a VAT refund form when you pay.
Step 1: Ask for a VAT Refund Form in the Store
When buying items, tell the cashier you want a tax refund (détaxe).
The store will give you:
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A VAT refund form
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A receipt
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Sometimes a barcode form
Keep these documents carefully — you will need them at the airport.
Step 2: Bring the Goods With You
When leaving France:
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Carry the purchased goods in your luggage
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Do not use them before leaving the EU
Customs officers may ask to see the items.
Step 3: Go to the VAT Refund Machines at the Airport
At major airports like Charles de Gaulle Airport, you’ll find automated machines called PABLO kiosks.
Here you:
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Scan the barcode on your VAT form.
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Confirm your departure.
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Receive digital validation.
If the machine shows a green confirmation, your refund process is approved.
Step 4: If Required, Visit Customs
Sometimes the machine may ask you to go to a customs officer.
You may need to show:
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Passport
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Goods you purchased
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VAT refund documents
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Boarding pass
After inspection, customs will stamp the form.
Step 5: Receive Your Refund
Refunds can be issued in several ways:
💳 Credit card refund (most common)
💶 Cash refund at the airport desk
🏦 Bank transfer
Credit card refunds are often processed within a few weeks.
How Much Money Do You Get Back?
You usually receive less than the full VAT amount because processing companies charge fees.
Typical refunds:
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Around 10–15% of the purchase price
Still, this can represent significant savings on expensive items.
Tips for Getting Your VAT Refund Easily
To avoid problems:
✔ Ask for the tax refund form when shopping
✔ Keep receipts and forms together
✔ Arrive at the airport early
✔ Carry purchased items in hand luggage if possible
✔ Check refund instructions before leaving the store
Many travelers forget the first step and lose the opportunity.
What Items Qualify for VAT Refund?
Common refundable purchases include:
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Clothing and fashion items
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Cosmetics and skincare
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Luxury goods
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Electronics
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Jewelry
Services such as hotel stays and restaurant meals do not qualify.
Final Answer: How Does VAT Refund Work at the Airport in France?
VAT refunds in France allow non-EU visitors to reclaim part of the tax included in purchases when leaving the European Union. Travelers must request a tax-free form in the store, validate it at airport machines or customs, and choose how they want the refund issued. The process typically returns around 10–15% of the purchase price.
For many visitors, the VAT refund makes shopping in Paris even more worthwhile.
