Ask in the shop for the form "Export and buyer certificate for VAT purposes for exports in non-commercial travel (§ 6 para. 3a UStG)" and have it filled out on the spot. 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 or invoice receipt. This can be used instead of the aforementioned form for presentation at the border customs office.

In the shop

• If you use the form: Have the merchant fill it out and confirm it with his signature.
• Alternatively: use the cash or invoice receipt.

At the border customs office

• At check-in, inform your airline staff that you need an export and buyer's certificate to get a refund of the VAT on your purchases.
• The airline staff will direct you to the relevant border customs office with your luggage after you have cleared your luggage and attached the luggage tag.
• The customs personnel will confirm the export of your purchases on the form or the receipt/invoice. If your purchases are in your checked baggage, the baggage remains at customs and is forwarded from there to transport. If your purchases are in your hand luggage, you can take it with you into the cabin after check-in.
• With the export and buyer confirmation by customs, you can now have the VAT refunded. There are 2 ways to do this:
  • Back home, you send the export and buyer's certificate to the dealer. The dealer will then refund the sales tax 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 transferring again within the European customs area:

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