Ask in the store for the form "Export and recipient certificate for VAT purposes for exports in non-commercial travel (Section 6 (3a) UStG)" and have it completed on site. Alternatively, you can print out the form yourself from the customs website and carry it with you during the purchase. Or you can use the cash register or invoice receipt. This can be used instead of the aforementioned form for submission to the border customs office.

In the store

• If you use the form: Have it filled out by the retailer and confirmed by their signature.
• Alternatively: Use the till receipt or invoice receipt.

At the border customs office

• When checking in, inform your airline staff that you need an export and customer confirmation in order to be reimbursed for the VAT on your purchases.
• After checking your baggage and attaching the baggage tag, the airline staff will refer you to the relevant border customs office.
• The customs staff will confirm the export of your purchases on the form or the receipt/invoice. If your purchases are in your checked baggage, the baggage will remain at customs and will be forwarded from there for transportation. If your purchases are in your hand baggage, you can take them into the cabin after check-in.
• With the export and customer confirmation from customs, you can now have the VAT refunded. There are 2 ways to do this:
  • Back at home, you send the proof of export and receipt to the retailer. The retailer will then refund the VAT to you.
  • Alternatively, you can contact a service company directly at the airport before departure, which will carry out the refund for you for a service fee.

Please note if you are changing planes again within the European customs area:

• You must have goods in your checked baggage confirmed by the customs office at the first airport of departure.
• The export of items in hand baggage will be confirmed by customs at the last EU airport of departure.