To obtain a VAT refund in Spain, including at the airport in Madrid, follow these steps:
To obtain a VAT refund in Madrid, follow these steps:
- Shop at Participating Stores: Ensure you shop at stores that offer VAT refunds. Look for "Tax-Free" signs or ask the staff if they participate in the VAT refund scheme.
- Minimum Purchase Requirement: You typically need to spend a minimum amount (usually around €90.15) in a single store to qualify for a VAT refund. Check the specific store’s requirements.
- Request a Tax-Free Form: When making your purchase, ask the cashier for a Tax-Free form. You will need to provide your passport and the store will complete the necessary details on the form.
- Keep Your Receipts: Along with the Tax-Free form, keep all receipts as proof of your purchases.
- Customs Validation: When you’re leaving Spain (or the EU), present your Tax-Free form, receipts, and purchased items to customs officials at the airport or border. They will validate your form by stamping it.
- Claim Your Refund: After customs validation, you can claim your refund at a designated Tax Refund company kiosk at the airport (like Global Blue or Premier Tax Free) or by mailing the stamped forms to the refund company. Refunds can be issued in cash or credited back to your credit card, depending on the method you choose.
Make sure to allow enough time at the airport for customs and the refund process before your flight.
At Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport (MAD), the process for obtaining a VAT refund is straightforward, but it's essential to follow the steps carefully to ensure a smooth experience. Here are more detailed instructions:
- Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight, ideally at least 2-3 hours prior, to allow enough time for customs and the VAT refund process.
- Locate the Tax Refund Office: After checking in for your flight and passing through security, look for the Tax Refund offices or kiosks located in the departure hall. Common companies for VAT refunds include Global Blue and Premier Tax Free. Signs in the airport will guide you to these locations.
- Customs Validation: Before you go to the Tax Refund office, you must go through customs. Head to the customs area with your Tax-Free form, receipts, and the items you purchased. Present these documents to customs officials. They will check your items, stamp your Tax-Free form, and may ask to see the receipts.
- Claiming Your Refund: After customs validation, take your stamped Tax-Free form to the Tax Refund office or kiosk. You can receive your refund in cash (usually in euros) or as a credit to your credit card. If you choose cash, be prepared for a possible fee.
- Mailing the Form (if necessary): If you don’t receive your refund at the airport, some companies allow you to mail the stamped form to them to process your refund. Check the instructions provided on the form.
- Keep Everything Organized: Throughout the process, keep all documents (Tax-Free forms, receipts, and customs stamps) organized, as you’ll need them to complete your VAT refund.
- Remember to check the opening hours of the Tax Refund offices, as they may vary, and be mindful of any specific requirements related to your purchases or the refund process.
