If you’re planning a trip to Paris and are a fan of luxury fashion, you might be wondering how much you can save on your Chanel purchases through a VAT refund. The good news is that tourists who reside outside of the European Union are eligible for a VAT refund on their purchases, which can amount to significant savings.
What is VAT?
First things first, let’s define what VAT is. VAT stands for Value Added Tax and is a tax that’s added to goods and services in the European Union. The current VAT rate in France is 20%, which means that if you purchase an item for €100, €20 of that price goes towards the VAT.
Who is eligible for a VAT refund?
As previously mentioned, tourists who reside outside of the European Union are eligible for a VAT refund on their purchases. This means that if you’re visiting Paris from the United States, Canada, or any other non-EU country, you qualify for a refund.
How much can you save on Chanel purchases?
The amount of your potential savings depends on the total cost of your Chanel purchases and the current exchange rate between your home currency and euros. In general, Chanel offers a 12% tax refund on their products. This means that if you spend €1,000 on Chanel products in Paris, you’ll receive a €120 refund.
How to claim your VAT refund
To claim your VAT refund at Chanel in Paris, follow these steps:
- When making your purchase at any Chanel boutique in Paris, inform the sales associate that you wish to claim a VAT refund.
- Show your passport or ID to prove that you reside outside of the EU.
- The sales associate will provide you with a form to fill out with your personal information and details about your purchase.
- Make sure to keep your receipts and present them along with the completed form at the airport customs office before your departure from France.
- You’ll receive a stamp on your form and can then proceed to claim your refund at the VAT refund office or kiosk in the airport terminal.
Important things to keep in mind
- The VAT refund only applies to products that you’re taking out of the country with you. If you consume or use any of the items in France, you won’t be eligible for a refund.
- The process of claiming a VAT refund can take some time, so make sure to arrive at the airport with enough time before your flight departure.
- Some stores may have a minimum purchase amount in order to be eligible for a VAT refund. Check with the sales associate before making your purchase.
In conclusion, if you’re planning on indulging in some Chanel shopping during your trip to Paris, make sure to take advantage of the VAT refund. With a little bit of effort, you can save a significant amount on your purchases and have more money left over for other experiences during your trip.