Tax free in Prague. TAX FREE in the Czech Republic Tax free in the Czech Republic from what amount

Today I will tell you how to return Tax Free at Prague Airport. Return Tax Free - Tax Free, this is a VAT refund for the goods you purchased. Only a non-European Union citizen can return it. So, if you are a citizen of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Kazakhstan and any other country outside the European Union, you have the opportunity to return Tax Free. It is returned upon leaving the country.

What can you return Tax Free for in Prague (Czech Republic)

Most tourists leave Prague by plane. Therefore, Vaclav Havel Airport (Ruzine) is the last point of entry into the territory of the Czech Republic. And it is there that you have the opportunity to return Tax Free. To take advantage of this opportunity, you need to ask the sellers not just for a receipt for the goods, but also for a Tax Free form when shopping in stores. Most shops in tourist areas (for example, Wenceslas Square) always give this form to tourists.

But not everything can be returned Tax Free. The basic rule is that the value of the goods/goods must exceed CZK 2,000 according to the receipt. This is approximately 5 thousand rubles. Moreover, the rule does not apply to units of goods, it applies to the final invoice in one receipt. That is, if you buy one souvenir mug from Prague, worth 500 CZK, you cannot return Tax Free. But if in the same store, at the same moment, you buy other souvenirs, and the amount payable on the check exceeds 2000 CZK, then you can return Tax Free from all this. If you plan to return Tax Free, then try to make purchases of at least 2000 CZK.

You cannot return Tax Free on certain goods, namely: food, alcohol, gasoline, tobacco products, and other goods that are used for a short time.

The most common thing you can return Tax Free for is:

• shoes
• cloth
• souvenirs
• jewelry, including Czech crystal or Czech garnet;
• and other goods;

How to return Tax Free at Prague Airport

Remember the golden rule of free taxi return: never pack those goods from which you want to get Tax Free back, in a suitcase that you cannot open in front of customs officers and show the goods. This is due to the fact that in approximately 90% of cases, the employee at the TAX REFUND counter, deciding whether to return Tax Free, will ask you to show some of the goods. This procedure is required to at least somehow make sure that you will take the goods with you out of the country. After passing the check, you can put all your things in your suitcase and pack them as you wish - the main thing is to do this after, and not before, you go to return Tax Free. So, you now know the rule, and now specifically step by step what you need to do to get Tax Free back at Prague Airport. Step-by-step instructions below.

Step 1. You need to go to the TAX REDUND counter. It is available in all airport terminals. In the first terminal, from where flights to Russia and Ukraine depart, the counter is located not far from the flight check-in counters. As a rule, there is a long queue for tax refunds. Therefore, if you plan to issue a Tax Free refund at Prague airport, you need to arrive at the airport in advance.

Step 2. When the employee takes all the documents from you, he may or may not ask, depending on how lucky you are, to show something. Show everything they ask. If you bought a fur coat, show the fur coat, etc. Nothing more is required from you, since the employee, making sure that everything is in order with your forms, will put a stamp on them and send you to one of the money issuing points.

Step 3. The cash collection point is located next to the counter where you spoke with the employee who gave you the stamps. There are several of these points in Terminal 1. Choose what you like, or rather, according to the exchange rates. You don’t have to walk far, these points are located 10 meters from the TAX REFUND counter:

This item is a regular exchanger. There you will be offered to give money either in crowns, or at the conversion rate, in euros or even rubles. It's up to you to decide what is the best way to get paid. Crowns – no conversion, maximum profitability. The exchange rate for rubles or euros is not favorable at any airport exchange office. But, as a rule, there is nowhere to go, since Czech crowns are not so easy to change in your homeland. Therefore, choose a currency that is convenient for you. The photo below shows one of the points for issuing money for Tax Free at Prague Airport. If the queue at these exchange offices is long, you can go to the other end of the airport and find another, inconspicuous exchange office there:

Step 4. That's it, when you receive the money, you no longer need to return to the Tax window. The procedure is completely finished. Take your money away and go check in for your flight.

Please note that you need to allow at least 1 additional hour for the Tax Free return procedure at Prague Airport. And arrive at the airport 3 hours before departure, and in some cases it’s better 3.5-4 hours. Otherwise, there is a risk that you simply will not have time to stand in line.

Processing a tax free refund in Prague: instructions for use

If you are planning to make several large purchases in Prague, then it makes sense to bother with the return of tax free (value added tax) on your purchase. What do I need to do?

1. First of all, pay attention to the place where you plan to make a series of purchases. In stores where tax free is issued, there are special identification marks, for example the following:

2. If the store you need has such a sign, feel free to buy whatever you want, but not less than 2 thousand CZK - this is the minimum amount with which a tax free refund in Prague is possible.

3. When paying for your purchase, ask the seller to issue tax free for you. He will prepare a special form for you, where he will fill out the type of purchase, material, and attach a receipt. On the form you will need to fill out something about yourself (according to your passport) and leave a signature. It is best to fill out the tax free form in advance so as not to waste time on this at the airport. This is what the tax free form filled out by you should look like.

4. Upon arrival at Václav Havel Airport in Prague, in Terminal 1 to the right of the exit you will see the check-in counters for your flight. If your purchases will be in your hand luggage, you will first need to get a boarding ticket for the plane at the check-in counter, and only after that you can go for tax free.

5. After receiving your boarding pass, you need to go to the window with the inscription “Customs stamp” (or just the letter “C”). There are three such windows in Terminal 1, to the left and right of the check-in counter there are two of them, you will recognize these windows by the large queue. When you approach this window, present your passport, boarding pass and tax free forms with receipts. Sometimes employees may ask to see your purchases. If you have purchases in your hand luggage, show them. If your purchases are included in your luggage, you can immediately go with the tax-free forms to the “Customs stamp” window without receiving a boarding pass in advance.

6. When the airport staff stamps your forms, you need to go to the window with the inscription “Partner refund point” (or just the letter “R”), present your forms and checks with stamps. They will be taken from you, and VAT will be returned in exchange. You will also be asked which currency you would like to receive your refund in – CZK or EUR. When going home, you are unlikely to ask for crowns, but keep in mind that when choosing euros, the staff will take a small commission. This is why returning tax free in the Czech Republic is not as profitable as, for example, in Spain or other European countries.

That's it, it's not very difficult, but you can return tax free in the Czech Republic. If you still have questions about tax free, leave them in the comments

Forum Prague: VAT refund

Being in Prague for the first time, we encountered a serious problem at the airport. After standing in a huge line to check in our luggage and receive tickets, we went to the customs officer to confirm the documents issued to us in the stores. He stamped it and we went to the cashier to receive a 14% refund. At the cash register, I discovered that one of the documents had been cut by a customs officer. The girl with an impudent look and a smile on her face said that she could not accept this paper. All my arguments and explanations were unsuccessful. She was deliberately stalling for time, talking on the phone with an insolent smile, knowing that we were all rushing to catch the plane. I was refunded only for one purchase, where the amount was much lower. Who doesn’t know, if you make a purchase in a store for 2000 CZK or more, you are entitled to a VAT refund. But apparently, everything is not so simple. I noticed that married couples stood in line at different checkout counters if they had more than one document from the stores. I think you should not approach the customs officer together, otherwise your documents will be cut, as happened in our case. It's a shame that this incident marred our stay in this beautiful city. I hope my message will be useful to someone and help avoid unpleasantness.

Thank you, useful information, it’s good that Prague is amazing, you can quickly forget about your troubles.

Really good point, at first we were also confused by TaxFree, but then we gave up. We bought a little, but inexpensive and not at once, and not in one day. But we didn’t find anything special that we could buy, for example, for 2000 crowns. What did you buy, if it’s not a secret? Did you take everything in one place at once?

Mi v odnom magazine bought 5 pairs of shoes. bili skidki, i kachestvo obuvi ochen’ horoshee. V drugom magazine suprug kupil sebe rubashki i jeans.

We returned Tax-free several times when leaving Prague and never encountered any problems, and the amounts were quite large - from the purchase of an iPad, a smartphone and a bunch of all sorts of clothes and shoes. There really is a queue at the customs officers, this is a fact, but in other countries too. But the stamps were always placed without problems, usually asking to show one of the purchases, which was more expensive in cost. They also gave out money at the cash desk without any problems, the only thing was that the exchange rate wasn’t quite right when translated into euros, so we prefer to take it in kroons, because We still return to Prague regularly. But if you wish, you can also receive a tax free refund here in Russia at Master Bank (there should be Global Blue or Premier Tax Free, but in Prague we usually only received them). Now we have issued a tax free refund from Germany, Global Blue is being returned in cash in rubles, and Premier is being returned in cash in Euros. Without any problems or commissions, but again, the conversion of Euros into rubles is carried out at a rate less than the official rate of the Central Bank.

For example, we bought equipment (phone, iPad), children's clothing - they have incomparably better quality and cheaper than ours, shoes. And we always processed tax free returns without any problems. And the same iPad phones, even if their price is comparable to our prices, are cheaper due to the tax refund.

I don’t know, maybe Russians are treated differently.

Thanks for your answer, janna. I don’t know, it probably still depends on the customs officer. So far it's 50/50.

polly, but we wanted to take the Sony tablet z first, but the prices are really comparable to Moscow and cheaper only because of the return of tax free (by 2.5-4 thousand rubles, depending on the store). Maybe we'll try it another time.

Alexey, it turns out to be significantly cheaper only at the start of sales of some model, when our prices go up to the ceiling.))

In the Czech Republic they treat Russians and Ukrainians very poorly, so they try to humiliate and insult them at every opportunity. Three days ago (October 21, 2013) my wife and I left Prague. That day there were several flights to Russia on different airlines. The customs officers searched “down to my underpants.” There was a long line, many were forced to show all their purchases. People unpacked suitcases that had previously been neatly packed and crawled on their knees on the floor. The customs officers turned all the things onto the floor and inspected them. All tags were checked, items must be unworn and tags must be present on items. Otherwise, you won't see a return. Those who checked in their suitcase as luggage were forced to run for the suitcase. I also wanted to go pick up and show all my things, but they told me that in this case we would be kicked off the flight, because... They won’t have time to take the suitcase back later. Those. or we return the tax free and we are removed from the flight, in this case we buy a new ticket; or we fly on our plane and do not return tax free. When checking checks, you must show your passport and boarding pass. We only had the things we take into the salon: two bags and three packages. Of what I had with me, only one bag was checked. They didn’t look at the rest of the things - they put stamps on all the things that they had with them. Of the items that were checked in as luggage, only receipts containing cosmetics were stamped. They didn’t put stamps on the clothes, they said they had to show them. Those. check as they want. Why do they put stamps on some goods without inspection (and it doesn’t matter if you have things with you or not), but on some goods they don’t put stamps? They humiliate people by throwing out their personal belongings on the floor, as people crawl on their knees in front of them. Tax refunds can only be made on stamped forms.

I recommend arriving at the airport a lot in advance if you want to get your tax free refund. We arrived 3.5 hours in advance and almost missed the plane. We already passed through passport control 20 minutes before departure and ran to the security check area. Also, do not check things in luggage. until you receive all the stamps at customs, otherwise you will not get your tax back. Already. You will have to suffer humiliation to get your tax free back!

I don’t understand how, if a person flies in transit through Prague, things are checked in as luggage at the airport of departure, and customs is cleared in the country of departure from Schengen. Those. if you fly to Russia from Paris via Prague: you hand over your things in Paris, but you must go through customs in Prague. Isn't it nonsense?

Tax free in the Czech Republic. Tax free refund at Prague airport

When making purchases in some Czech stores, foreign tourists can take advantage of the right to tax free. The general rules for returning tax free can be read here, and in this article we will talk about the practical side of such a process in the Czech Republic. The following limits and terms for tax free are in effect in the state:

• the minimum purchase amount must exceed 2500 CZK (about 80 euros);
• the purchased product must be withdrawn within 3 months;
• The tax free check is valid for 5 months;
• The VAT rate in the Czech Republic is 19%.

There are two tax-free systems in the Czech Republic: Global Blue and Premier Tax Free, however, it is worth noting that their network of stores is widely represented only in Prague. The list of stores in the capital that are included in Global Blue can be found on their website, but Premier Tax Free cannot boast of such a convenient service - there is only a general catalog of brands (you need to select a brand to see if it is represented in Prague).

Detailed information about tax free return points in the Czech Republic (Prague, Karlovy Vary, Brno and Pardubice) can be found here: Global Blue and Premier Tax Free. Of course, only those located after customs, that is, at airports, are available to tourists. As an example, we will dwell in detail on the most used option, which is Prague airport (read how to get from Prague to the airport here).

Tax free refund at Prague airport

Tax free returns at Prague Airport are carried out in Terminal No. 1. The size of the terminal is relatively small, so all the necessary points are nearby. Fortunately, there are enough pointers, and it won’t be difficult to figure it out. A detailed diagram of terminal No. 1 can be found here, and a simplified plan is a little lower.

Main detail when returning tax-free, you must show the purchased item at customs, and sometimes also at the money issuing point, so either do not check in your luggage until you have issued a return, or leave the tax-free item as hand luggage. Depending on which option you choose, the sequence of going through customs, checking in, checking in your luggage and receiving tax free will be slightly different.

Tax free return for goods checked into the luggage compartment:

1. check-in (but you don’t check your luggage and don’t wrap it in film);
2. customs (letter “C” on the map);
3. tax free return point (letters “R2”, “R3”, “R4”, “R5” on the map);
4. baggage check-in (you will have to stand in line for check-in again);
5. passport (border) control.

Tax free return for goods that remain as hand luggage:

1. check-in and baggage drop-off;
2. customs (letter “C” on the map);
3. passport (border) control;
4. tax free return point (letter “R1” on the map).

When you receive money at the return point, be sure to find out the conversion rate. As a rule, it is most profitable to take crowns; then the euro. The most “extortionate” commission is for dollars. Crowns can be spent immediately in Duty Free.

Tax free in Prague

Every shopaholic is familiar with the concept of “tax free”, because... This service is beneficial for everyone who makes purchases abroad.

Tax free (from the English “without collection”) is a VAT refund that occurs when leaving the country. Each country has its own return rules, so before applying for tax free, make sure that all the conditions for receiving a refund are met.

For example, in the Czech Republic, VAT = 19% from the cost, but a refund will only be possible if you purchased for more than 80 euros.
The tax free check is valid for 5 months, but the goods you purchased must be exported within 3 months.

There are several Tax free systems in Prague. Here you can issue a return using the system Premier Tax Free And Global Blue. In boutiques where returns are available, you will see an icon with the name of the system and an indication of the place where you can arrange the service.

Tax free at Prague airport
To get a VAT refund for tourists, you need to go to Prague airport. If you spent more than 80 euros, you will need Terminal No. 1. The terminal area is small, so the necessary manipulations will be quick and easy. Special signs will prevent you from getting lost.

To make a return, you must present the purchased product at the checkout and customs. Do not check your luggage until your tax refund is processed or pack your purchase in your carry-on luggage. In each case, tax refund processing will occur differently.

If you checked your purchases in your luggage:
1. Check in without checking in your luggage
2. Go through customs
3. Issue a return
4. Check your luggage
5. Go through passport control

If the purchase is packaged as hand luggage, the algorithm is as follows:
1. Check in and check in your luggage
2. Go through customs
3. Go through passport control
4. Issue a return

If you want to get the most out of your tax refund, check the exchange rates.

It is often more profitable to receive money in crowns and spend it in Duty free. The second place among currencies is the euro, the third is the dollar.

Many tourists, especially those who like to go shopping and buy everything for themselves, know that when returning to their homeland, some of the money paid can be returned. Naturally, return return tax free in the Czech Republic It's also possible.

If you buy some items worth more than 80 euros in one store, ask the seller if Tax Free is issued here. Usually there is a distinctive sticker on the doors of such stores, you can easily find it.

The seller will have to fill out a special form and give it to you.

It is believed that labels and tags should not be removed from purchases for which money will be returned at the border; it is advisable to leave the goods in their packaging. But who doesn’t want to try on a new ring or go for a walk with a new handbag? In practice, customs officers do not particularly monitor this, but they will most likely ask you to show your things.

How to return tax free in the Czech Republic at Prague airport?

Return Tax free at Prague airport is carried out as follows.

1. The form you received in the store must be filled out. This can be done in advance at the hotel. There is nothing complicated, you just need to enter your passport details, address and sign.

2. At Prague Airport there are two options for returning taxes free.

First option. In the departure hall, before going through border control, you go to the left of the check-in counters ( 1 on the plan below). There's usually a short queue. Those who check in the items for which a refund is being issued go there as luggage. But those who do not rent out these things can also go there, although this is not entirely correct. Then you should go to one of the refund counters ( 2 on the plan). Which cashier will return your money depends on your tax free. You can return it in euros, dollars, Czech crowns, and, in my opinion, even in rubles in some places.

!Attention. To receive a stamp from the inspector on your form there, you need to have a boarding pass or e-ticket. If you do not use self-check-in through counters, you first need to check in for the flight, and then go show your things to customs. So don’t rush to pack your suitcase in plastic wrap. In addition, it turns out that in order to check in your luggage, you will have to stand in line for check-in again.

By the way, if you have already checked in through the self-check-in counter and decide to check your luggage without a queue, for example, through a business class counter where there is no one, or look for a special “Drop-off” counter, then you don’t have to try. There is simply no such counter there, and in business they will also send you, of course, if you are not flying on business. You may want to ask if it is possible to check in your luggage without queuing. But I noticed that 50 percent of all those standing already have boarding tickets in their hands and are standing for the same thing.

3. Second option Tax free refund at Prague airport after passing border control. After passing the control go left ( 3 on the diagram). There are also customs inspectors and a returns office. But they return tax free only on goods that you did not check in as luggage. Because you will no longer be able to present the items checked in as luggage to the inspector. Although the queue there is noticeably shorter.

So look for these cash registers with the signs “Refund”, “Global Tax”, “Tax Free” and you will receive a partial refund of the purchase price, which usually goes straight to Duty Free.

Tax Free(Tax Free)- This is a system for refunding the amount of value added tax on exported goods (VAT). This means that if you spend money in shops in Prague, you will get it backTax Free.

For what product return Tax Free

Goods that you carry in your personal baggage and are intended for personal use.

For what product Not return Tax Fr and

Weapons, gems separate from jewelry, vehicles and goods purchased over the Internet.

Who has the right to make Tax Free purchases?

Citizens who do not have a residence permit in the Czech Republic (or in other Schengen countries). It is important to have a tourist Schengen visa category C (short-term or multiple visa) in your passport.

How much do you need to purchase to get a Tax Free refund in the Czech Republic?

Minimum purchase amount –2001 CZK .

VAT rate

StandardI rate: 21%

Books, medicines, glasses, food: 15%

The refund you will receive is the amount of VAT minus the administration fee (about 5-7% of the amount). It is more profitable to receive Tax Free in Czech crowns so as not to pay a commission for currency conversion.

Conditions for receiving Tax Free in the Czech Republic

ABOUT Tax Free can only issue a return document in stores where you have a logoGlobal Blue Tax Free orPremier Tax Free . See logo onwindow, at the checkout counter, or ask a store employee.

Purchases must be worth at least CZK 2,001in one check . Either purchases for this amount must be made inwithin one day in one store .

When paying for goods at the checkout, take a specialan envelope in which will be located partially completed form with the amount due for return (remaining empty fieldsyou can fill in at the hotel) and check.

Pick up a Tax Free return memo in Russian from the store, which indicates the nearest customs control points, money issuing points at the airport, addresses of companies and other useful information.

All labels and tags must be left on purchases, and the packaging must remain intact.

note , what inThe time from the moment of purchase to the moment of submitting documents to process a Tax Free return to customs authorities is regulated and is 6 weeks!

How to fill out a Tax Free form correctly

There are two types of uniforms - blue and white. Fill in the required fields using block letters of the Latin alphabet. An incomplete form may be the reason for refusal to receive Tax Free.

How to return Tax Free at Prague airport. What to do with the Tax Free form at customs.

It is advisable to arrive at the airport half an hour/hour earlier. Chances are, you won't be the only one who wants to get paid. The customs post in Terminal 1 is located to the left of the information boards in the departures check-in hall.

At the airport, before checking your purchases into your luggage, go to the customs office and present in expanded form a completed Tax Free form, all receipts, your purchases and a plane ticket/electronic ticket. Purchases must be packaged and unused. The customs inspector will check the number of the labels with the number on the receipts. If you are unable to present the goods to customs for inspection, customs officials may refuse to stamp the refund form and it will be invalid.

After clearing customs, you can check in and check in your luggage.

In the zoneDuty Freego to the Tax Free Cash Refund/Cash counterPoint/ Travelex,provide your passport and a completed receipt with a stamp in order to receive a refund on your card or in cash. Please note that there are several racks, therefore, you need to look at the logo that is indicated in the upper corner of your form and go to the desired rack with that logo.Opening hoursracks: 0 6 :00 – 2 2 : 3 0 daily. Airport agents may deduct an additional local fee for cash refunds.

Drop the envelope with documents into a special Tax Free mailbox at the airport and receive a tax refund forcredit card . If you do not send the documents, then after 30 days the money will be blocked on your card.

Return Tax Free in the center of Prague

In the Czech Republic there are two commoncompanies that deal with Tax Free returns:Global Blue Tax Free AndPremier Tax Free (look for the company logo in the store and on the special envelope that will be given when paying for purchases).You can come to the office of the desired company, present receipts, goods, international passport, bank card. And you will get Tax Free back.

IMPORTANT! After receiving the money at the Tax Free return point, then at the airport, you must go through customs control, where you will present your receipts, passport, ticket or boarding pass. You will be given a stamp and you throw all the receipts with a customs mark into a special box near the Tax Free pick-up point at the airport. This way, all documents will be sent to the company that paid the money.

What happens if you do not send documents to the company? The money you received at the office in Prague will be withdrawn from your bank card. Therefore, you must obtain a customs stamp and submit the Tax Free form to the company's Processing Center ( Global Blue Tax Free or Premier Tax Free) within 21 days from the date of receipt of money in Prague.

Tax Free return points in the center of Prague

You can get your money back not only at the airport, but also in the center of Prague.

Company Global Blue Tax Free

1. Global Blue Prague

Vodickova 38, 11000, Prague 1

Opening hours:Mon, Wed, Fri: 08:00 - 12:00; Tue, Thu: 12:00 - 16:00; Closed: Sat., Sun.

2. Bohemia Travel System

Panska 6, 11000, Prague 1

Opening hours:Mon- Sun : 08:00 – 20:00

3. Abraham

Namesti Republiky 8, 11000, Prague 1

Opening hours:Mon-Fri: 09:00 - 20:00; Sat: 10:00 - 19:00; Sun: 10:00 – 18:00

4. Erpet

Staroměstské náměstí 27, 11000, Prague 1

Opening hours:Pn-Fri: 10:00 – 19:00;Sat-Sun:10:00 – 1 7 :0 0

Company Premier Tax Free

1. Manufaktura

Melantrichova 17, Prague 1

Opening hours:Mon- Sun : 08:00 – 20:00

2. Urban Store

Vaclavske nam.18, 110 00 Prague 1

Opening hours:Mon- Sun : 08:00 – 20:00

3. Shi-Bon

Týn 3, Ungelt – Botanicus, Prague 1

Opening hours:Mon- Sun : 08:00 – 1 8 :30

Return Tax Free to a bank card in a store

In some stores, when paying for a purchase with a bank card, Tax Free in the store may not be charged or it will be instantly credited back to your card. To do this, you must present your passport with a tourist visa at the checkout. Check with sellers for information.

If you got your money back immediately in the store, don’t forget to keep the receipts, get a stamp at customs and throw the envelope with the documents into the Tax Free box at the airport. You should send the Tax Free form to the company's Processing Center within 21 days from the date of purchase.

Return Tax Free in Russia

Two ways to get Tax Free in Russia:

1. In a Czech store, paying for your purchase, P Show your passport and ask for a Tax Free return form.The store employee will issue to you purchase receipt and the envelope in which you you will find form with the amount required for return (independentlyfill in the blanks) . Make a note in the specially designated space on the receipt about the Tax Free payment method -"to a bank card account" , and indicate the bank card details of the owner of the check (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Diners, JCB and CUP cards are suitable). Get stamps at customs; to do this, present all documents and your purchases to the customs officer. After this, you can send from any city in Russia in a special envelopeby registered mail Tax Free form, receipts with a customs stamp and copies of tickets to the Tax Free return company. The company's address will be indicated on the envelope. Indicate your return postal address and full name on the envelope in Latin letters.Necessarily Make copies of all documents (checks and forms) you mail (keep one copy for yourself).

The European Union tax system allows you to return part of the purchase price - value added tax (VAT). Let's figure out how to refund VAT and apply for tax free in Prague.

COUNTRIES WHERE TAX FREE OPERATES

Tax free is a special document that is issued when purchasing a product. Subsequently, it can be used to refund VAT.

This system operates in all major cities of the European Union (as well as in certain Asian and Latin countries), including Prague. In these countries, only their citizens or foreigners living there for more than 6 months must pay VAT.

Who is entitled to tax free purchases and for what amount. VAT rate

The service can be used by foreign citizens who have been in Prague for less than six months and have made a purchase worth more than CZK 2,000.

Groups of people who do not fall under the VAT refund program:

• foreigners staying in the country on a work visa;
• foreigners with a residence permit of the country where the purchase is made;
• when purchasing in the European Union - citizens of EU countries;

NB! The tax is not refundable after 3 months from the date of purchase.

Tax reimbursement is subject to goods that are purchased for personal use and transported in your own luggage.

The VAT rate in Prague is not always the same:

The exact rate can be seen on the receipt, where VAT is usually indicated in a separate column.

The following goods are NOT covered by the tax free system in Prague:

• services sector;
• food and alcohol;
• fuel;
• weapon;
• means of transport;
• products from online stores.

It is impossible to return the full amount of tax in Prague, since an administrative fee (5-7%) is charged during the transaction. In addition, issuing companies also take a small percentage for their work. Therefore, the final proceeds will be equal to 14-16% of the total VAT.

How to get tax free in the Czech Republic: general information

In Prague, you can obtain the relevant documents only in stores operating in the Tax Free system. They can be distinguished by a sticker pasted at the entrance with the corresponding inscription. However, even if there is no sticker, you should always ask the sellers about it.

There are several VAT refund schemes. Therefore, when purchasing and issuing a check, it is better to take a booklet with instructions and addresses of tax free sales points. Or ask the seller how to get tax free in Prague if he speaks Russian or English.

VAT can only be refunded on completely new, unused items. Therefore, in order for the tax refund to proceed without complications, you must keep all receipts, do not rip off tags and do not unpack the goods.

COMPLETE GUIDE

Two large issuing companies work with tax free in Prague - Global Blue Premier Tax Free and Premier Tax Free. They have representative offices both in the city itself and at the airport.

There are several options on how you can return tax free in Prague:

• at the place of purchase;
• at the office of an intermediary company;
• in an Aeroport;
• upon returning to your country.

How to fill out the tax free form

Tax free forms are provided to the buyer at the checkout. They come in several types and are usually already partially filled with the store.

The buyer must fill in the empty columns himself in printed Latin. If difficulties arise with this, it is better to ask the seller for help. Everything must be completed correctly, since if you issue tax free in Prague with errors, then the buyer will be denied a VAT refund.

The standard form, as a rule, contains the following information: full name, residential address, identification document number, E-mail, bank card number, personal signature.

What to do with the tax free form at customs

Regardless of how and where the tax free will be cashed - on the spot in Prague or upon return - the documents in any case must be properly processed at customs.

To do this, customs officers need to present your purchases, receipts for them and correctly filled out tax free forms.

Goods that are subject to VAT refund must be readily and directly available. That is, things should not be in a suitcase packed in film, and should not be folded to the very bottom.

When reconciling the receipt and form, the customs officer may ask you to present the goods “in person.” A prerequisite is full compliance of goods and receipts. Also, do not forget about the presence of labels and packaging.

After comparing the goods and inspecting the integrity of the packaging:

• checks are stamped,
• tax free documents officially become valid.

TAX FREE REFUND POINTS IN PRAGUE AND RUSSIA

Tax free refunds in Prague are carried out by the offices of intermediary companies at the following addresses:

Global Blue:

1. Global Blue Prague, Vodičkova 1935/38, Nové Město, Prague 1;
2. Bohemia Travel System, Panska 895/6, Nové Město, Prague 1;
3. Abrahám, Namesti Republiky 656/8, Staré Město, Prague 1;
4. Erpet, Staroměstské náměstí 27 , Staré Město, Prague 1.

1. Manufaktura, Melantrichova 17, Prague 1;
2. Urban Store, Václavské náměstí 18, Prague 1;
3. Shi-Bon, Týn 3/1049, Ungelt – Botanicus, Prague 1.

Tax free refund to a bank card in a store

Tax free in Prague can be returned directly at the point of purchase, if the store provides this. To do this, you must show your passport with a visa at the checkout. Then the tax amount will not be taken into account when paying, or will be immediately returned to the card.

However, even with this method of VAT refund, the form will still have to be filled out, the receipts will have to be sealed at customs and all this will have to be sent to the issuing company.

At Prague airport

You can receive the tax amount directly at Vaclav Havel Prague Airport in terminals 1 or 2. The issuing company's location can be easily found using the appropriate signs.

Algorithm of actions:

1. Arrive at least 1 hour before your planned check-in – there are usually long queues near the Tax Free counters.
2. Go through customs inspection and receive a receipt with stamps - for this, things must be on the surface and presented upon request;
3. Check in for your flight and enter the Duty Free zone. The tax refund point is located near the currency exchange office. To receive money, you must present a passport, a check and a form with a stamp previously placed at the customs control point.

Next, the tax free form and checks are put into an envelope and handed over to an employee of the intermediary company or dropped into a special box at the counter. After which the VAT amount will be transferred to the card. The company may charge an additional fee for cash advances.

The envelope must reach the company's office within 21-30 days from the date of payment to the buyer. Otherwise, this amount will be blocked on the card.

Unfortunately, there are glitches in this system and sometimes the envelope gets lost along the way. Therefore, just in case, it is better to have copies of all documents on hand.

Additional offices of the company global blue tax free

In addition to Prague, there are other points in the Czech Republic where tax free amounts are refunded:

1. Pardubice Airport, transit hall.
2. Karlovy Vary:

• Duty Free store, Karlovy Vary Airport, departure hall;
• information center Karlovy Vary, Lazenska 14;
• Pharmacy St. Maria, Zamecky vrch 423/18.

Refund of tax free in Russia

In Russia there are 2 ways to cash out VAT:

1 way:

1. In a store in Prague, take a form with an envelope on which the address of the issuing company is already printed.
2. Upon returning to Russia, enclose copies of tickets, a tax free form, and checks with customs stamps in the envelope. When filling out the form, be sure to enter the details of your international bank card and make a note “to the bank card account.” It is better to keep copies of stamped checks and forms.
3. Send the envelope by registered mail or courier delivery.

Method 2:

Make a refund through partner banks:

• Czech-Russian Bank (cooperates with Premier);
• Banca Intesa (collaborates with Global Blue).

The bank must provide stamped checks, a tax free form, as well as a domestic and foreign passport. Documents are checked on the spot, after which the required amount is paid at the cash desk. The bank sends the form and check to the issuing company independently.

The Tax Free return system in Prague has long been established and regulated for the convenience of travelers. However, you should be careful when filling out documents. If you do everything right, shopping in Prague will become more profitable.

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Publication date: 2013-02-21

When making purchases in some Czech stores, foreign tourists can take advantage of the right to tax free. You can read the general rules for returning tax free, and in this article we will talk about the practical side of such a process in the Czech Republic. The following limits and terms for tax free are in effect in the state:

• the minimum purchase amount must exceed 2500 CZK (about 80 euros);
• the purchased product must be withdrawn within 3 months;
• The tax free check is valid for 5 months;
• The VAT rate in the Czech Republic is 19%.

There are two tax-free systems in the Czech Republic: Global Blue and Premier Tax Free, however, it is worth noting that their network of stores is widely represented only in Prague. The list of stores in the capital that are included in Global Blue can be found on their website, but Premier Tax Free cannot boast of such a convenient service - there is only a general catalog of brands (you need to select a brand to see if it is represented in Prague).

Detailed information about tax free return points in the Czech Republic (Prague, Karlovy Vary, Brno and Pardubice) can be found here: Global Blue and Premier Tax Free. Of course, only those located after customs, that is, at airports, are available to tourists. As an example, we will dwell in detail on the most used option, which is Prague Airport ().

Tax free refund at Prague airport

Tax free returns at Prague Airport are carried out in Terminal No. 1. The size of the terminal is relatively small, so all the necessary points are nearby. Fortunately, there are enough pointers, and it won’t be difficult to figure it out. You can see a detailed diagram of terminal No. 1, and a simplified plan a little lower.

Main detail when returning tax-free, you must show the purchased item at customs, and sometimes also at the money issuing point, so either do not check in your luggage until you have issued a return, or leave the tax-free item as hand luggage. Depending on which option you choose, the sequence of going through customs, checking in, checking in your luggage and receiving tax free will be slightly different.

Tax free return for goods checked into the luggage compartment:

1. check-in (but you don’t check your luggage and don’t wrap it in film);
2. customs (letter “C” on the map);
3. tax free return point (letters “R2”, “R3”, “R4”, “R5” on the map);
4. baggage check-in (you will have to stand in line for check-in again);
5. passport (border) control.

Tax free return for goods that remain as hand luggage:

1. check-in and baggage drop-off;
2. customs (letter “C” on the map);
3. passport (border) control;
4. tax free return point (letter “R1” on the map).

When you receive money at the return point, be sure to find out the conversion rate. As a rule, it is most profitable to take crowns; then the euro. The most “extortionate” commission is for dollars. Crowns can be spent immediately in Duty Free.

- group tour (up to 10 people) for a first acquaintance with the city and main attractions - 3 hours, 20 euros

- a walk through little-known but interesting corners of Prague away from tourist routes to feel the real spirit of the city - 4 hours, 30 euros

- bus tour for those who want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the Czech Middle Ages - 8 hours, 30 euros