How to get your VAT (Value Added Tax) back at the Airport
Paris Explained
A collection of stories, history, culture, practical tips, and hidden corners of Paris.
If you need a reason to make that big purchase in Paris, here you go. Visitors qualify for a refund of the VAT (Value Added Tax) of 20%. Going through the effort of getting the VAT back (minus the processing fee) is definitely worth it. The VAT refund must be validated when leaving your final destination in the EU.
Galeries Lafayette, Paris
New purchases over Euro 100 from the same store on the same day qualify. Vintage purchases do not qualify for a refund. Ask the merchant for the tax-free form when making your purchase at the cash register. They will need your passport. The word in French for this document is “bordereau de détaxe”. You’ll receive a tax-free form, usually with a PABLO barcode that can be scanned electronically at the airport. Keep track of this document along with the original sales receipt.
You then need to get these documents validated at the airport BEFORE going through security and before checking your luggage. Also, be sure to not use these items on your trip in case the customs officer wants to inspect them. The items need to be new to receive a refund.
If you got a PABLO barcode, you can go to a PABLO kiosk at CDG. If the kiosk validates your form with a green screen, you are done and your refund will be processed automatically if you requested a refund by credit card. You don’t need to mail anything.
If your form doesn’t have a barcode or if the kiosk rejects the form (red screen), you will have to go to the customs desk and have them processed manually. There could be lines at this office so be sure to allow enough time. Then follow the instructions on the form. In most cases, the stamped form must be mailed using the envelope provided. There should be a dedicated mailbox near the refund area.
If you requested a refund by credit card, it should be processed within 4 to 6 weeks. If you would like a cash refund, you can claim your refund at the refund desk. Where this is depends on your departure terminal.
Refund office locations can change so be sure to double check at the airport. Here are the latest locations at Charles de Gaulle Airport:
Terminal 1 and 2E: Get your money back in the public area of the terminal at a Cash Paris office. Get your money back in the reserved area (after passing through security) via a cash machine.
Terminal 2AC: Get your money back in the reserved area (after passing through security) at a Cash Paris office.
Terminals 2BD, 2G, & 3: Cash refunds will be made at a Global Exchange office.
Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris
What do you do upon arrival in the USA? The United States allows $800 per person of duty-free goods. Declare your goods upon arrival. Your VAT refund is connected to your passport number, so be sure to go through the process. If you are over the duty-free amount, you may have to pay duty depending on the value of your purchase.