Tax Free Shopping in Istanbul

Value-added tax (vat) is collected by almost all countries around the world. but as a tourist, you can benefit from tax free shopping in istanbul in different stores. if you are visiting different parts of turkey, you can still claim your taxes back. all you need to do is be eligible for tax free shopping in turkey. once you meet the requirements, you can claim your vat payment back. product prices in turkey include value-added tax (kdv). as istanbul is an amazing city for shopping, you will probably purchase some gifts in your istanbul old city tour. there are hundreds of authentic shops in istanbul.

published: 29 September 2022 / updated: 7 March 2024

How To Claim Your Tax Refund?

As a tourist, you can claim value added tax return when you shop in Istanbul. Like many other countries around the world, tax is always included in products in stores. But as a tourist, you do not have to pay these taxes. If you want to be eligible for tax return, there are certain rules you need to follow. These rules are:

1. You must be a resident of another country.

2. You must spend certain amount of money to claim VAT back (This amount changes annually. You need to check the exact amount before you visit Istanbul).

3. You need to take these products out of Turkey in 3 months.

4. You must purchase from tax free stores in Turkey (this is indicated with a blue sign).

5. You must ask the shop owner to prepare the Global Refund Cheque in payment process.

6. You need to present all your invoices and receipts.

If you are suitable to take you tax back, you can get your money back from international airports in Turkey. However, you need to be ready when you go to customs return offices in Istanbul.

Customs Office In International Airports In Turkey

You can claim your tax money back from customs offices in Turkey. If you are flying from Istanbul International Airport or from Sabiha Gokcen Airport, you can easily get your money back. After booking your Istanbul Airport Private Transfer, you need to search for the customs office. Since Istanbul Airport is a huge places, it is important to go early if you are going to collect your tax return.

If you are flying to a different city in Turkey, you can collect your tax back in that international airport. For example, if you are discovering amazing Cappadocia with Cappadocia daily trip tour, you can collect your tax back from that airport. This tax collection process might be even faster than Istanbul as the airport will be less crowded.

When you apply to customs office, you need to present your invoice. This invoice must show the product prices and VAT price. Also, customs officers in Turkey might ask to see the products you have purchased from Turkey. To prevent any delays during your VAT return process, try to prepare your goods and gifts. You can place them on top of your baggage for convenience. This way, you can complete your tour without any troubles.

If you want to learn more about Istanbul and things to do in Istanbul, you can consult to istanbul.com. With 20-years of experience, you can find unique attractions, hotels and city life tips for Istanbul.