Are you traveling out of South Africa and want to claim a VAT refund on your purchases? South Africa’s major airports, including OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg), Cape Town International Airport, and King Shaka International Airport (Durban), offer services that allow tourists and foreign nationals to reclaim the 15% VAT paid on goods. This guide walks you through the process, so you can maximize your refund quickly and efficiently.

Step 1: Ensure Your Purchases Are Eligible

Before you begin the VAT refund process, it’s important to check whether your purchases are eligible:

• You must be a foreign visitor who is not a resident of South Africa.
• Only goods purchased in South Africa that you are taking out of the country qualify for a VAT refund.
• VAT is refundable on goods over R250 (including VAT) purchased at registered retailers.
• Services and consumed items (e.g., restaurant meals) are not eligible for refunds.

Step 2: Keep Your Receipts and Ensure Compliance

To claim your refund, you must keep the original tax invoices (receipts) for all items you intend to claim VAT on. Ensure the following:

• The tax invoice must show the name, address, and VAT registration number of the supplier.
• It should detail the goods purchased, showing the VAT amount and total price paid.
• Goods must be unused and in their original packaging when presented at customs for inspection.

Step 3: Arrive Early at the Airport

Plan to arrive at the airport earlier than usual, as the VAT refund process may take some time, especially during peak travel seasons. You should allow for an additional 1-2 hours before your check-in time to complete the procedure.

Step 4: Visit the VAT Refund Office Before Checking in Your Luggage

Upon arrival at the airport, proceed to the VAT Refund Office, which is usually located before or after the security checkpoints and baggage drop-off areas:

• OR Tambo International Airport: VAT Refund desks are located in Terminal A (International Departures) and Terminal B (Domestic Departures).
• Cape Town International Airport: The VAT Refund Office is situated before security before the International Departures terminal.
• King Shaka International Airport: You’ll find the VAT Refund Office in the International Departures area.

Step 5: Present Your Documents and Purchases for Inspection

At the VAT Refund Office, you will need to present the following:

• Your passport and boarding pass (to verify you are leaving the country).
• Original tax invoices/receipts for the goods.
• The actual items you purchased, as officials may need to inspect them to verify their condition and eligibility for VAT refund.

Step 6: Receive Your VAT Refund

Once the officials verify your documents and goods, they will process your refund.

• Debit Card Refund: You can choose to have your refund transferred to your international debit card.

Additional Tips for a Smooth VAT Refund Experience

• Plan Your Shopping Accordingly: Aim to buy your items at least a day before departure to allow time to obtain all necessary documentation.
• Double-Check the Location of the VAT Refund Office: Make sure you know where the VAT Refund Office is located in your departure terminal to avoid last-minute delays.
• Be Prepared for Inspections: Officials may require proof that the goods are leaving the country, so keep all your purchased items easily accessible until you have received your refund.

For any further queries or information, you can contact our support team for assistance:

• Email: info@vatrefundagency.co.za or support@vatrefundagency.co.za
• Contact: +27 10 025 6371