Austria Tax Refund Guide: VAT Refund for Tourists Explained

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By Feyna

September 22, 2026

Austria Tax Refund

Shopping in Austria can be a delight, from designer boutiques in Vienna to charming local markets in Salzburg.

The good news for international travelers is that you can claim a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund on many of your purchases before leaving the country.

Whether you’ve splurged on luxury goods or picked up souvenirs, understanding how Austria’s tax-free shopping system works ensures you don’t miss out on valuable savings.

This guide explains who qualifies, what receipts to keep, and how to claim your refund efficiently at the airport or border.

What is a Tax Refund / VAT Refund in Austria?

Tax Refund Kiosk

When you shop in Austria and live outside the European Union (EU), you may be eligible to reclaim the Austrian VAT you paid on certain goods when leaving the country.

The standard Austria tax refund rate is 20% (with reduced rates for certain items).

How Much VAT Can You Get Back?

VAT Rates 2025

You won’t usually receive the full VAT amount, refund companies deduct handling fees, and you may incur foreign-exchange or card-processing charges.

Hence, you might receive around 15% of the purchase price back depending on circumstances.

Austria also has two reduced VAT rates: 

VAT RateApplies To

4.9%

Selected basic food products, including milk and dairy products, eggs, fresh and frozen vegetables, fruits, rice, wheat flour, pasta, bread, and table salt. This reduced rate applies from 1 July 2026.

10%

Most foodstuffs (excluding alcoholic beverages), books, newspapers, e-books, restaurant and catering services, water supplies, residential rentals, and passenger transport.

13%

Certain goods and services, including domestic flights, admission to sporting and cultural events, firewood, and the supply of living animals and plants.

💡To Travellers: Be aware of fees: refund agents charge for their service; your refund may be less than you expect.

Who Can Claim?

Tax Refund Criteria

To reclaim VAT on goods purchased in Austria, you must:

RequirementDetails

Non-EU Resident

You must have permanent residence or domicile outside the European Union (EU). Your passport or travel document must show a non-EU address.

No EU Residence Permit

You must not hold a residence permit for Austria or any other EU member state.

Minimum Purchase Amount

The total purchase price on a single invoice must exceed EUR 75.00 (EUR 75.01 or more).

Export of Goods

Purchased goods must be exported in your personal luggage outside the EU within three months following the end of the purchase month.

Customs Validation

You must obtain a customs stamp or digital validation on the U34 form (export certificate) at the final EU exit point. Goods must be presented unused to customs officials.

Type of Goods

Refund applies only to goods for personal use, not for services (e.g., hotel stays or restaurant bills).

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What’s Not Eligible?

Refund
CategoryDescription

Goods Purchased by EU Residents

  • Residents who live within the European Union (EU) are not entitled to claim VAT refunds under the tourist tax-free shopping scheme.
  • Only travelers whose permanent residence is outside the EU may apply for a refund.

Items Shipped Separately

  • Any goods that are not personally carried out of the EU by the traveler, such as items shipped by mail, courier, or freight forwarding services, do not qualify for a VAT refund.
  • The goods must leave the EU together with you in your personal luggage.

Fuel and Certain Consumables

  • Fuel for vehicles, such as petrol or diesel, is generally excluded from VAT refund eligibility.
  • This rule also applies to other consumables used during travel.
  • However, in rare cases involving registered business export claims, different conditions may apply.

Services Instead of Goods

  • Refunds are only applicable to physical goods, not to services like hotel stays, restaurant meals, or entertainment tickets, as these are consumed within Austria and not exported.
🔥Important: The goods must be unused (or at least in exportable condition) and part of your personal luggage.

Step-by-Step: How to Claim Your Refund

Step 1: At the Store

  • Ask the retailer for the tax-free shopping form (usually Form U34). Ensure your purchase is tagged accordingly.
Form 34

Step 2: When leaving Austria

  • Present your goods, receipts/invoices and forms at customs.
  • In major airports (e.g., Vienna), a digital export validation (DEV) system is used.
Tax Refund

Step 3: Submit your form

  • After getting the export confirmation, you either take it to a refund desk (or drop-box) or mail it in, depending on the provider.
Submit Form Tax Refund
✅Take A Note: The claim form must be submitted within six months of the end of the calendar year in which the purchase was made.

Step 4: Receive your refund

  • Funds can be credited to your card, paid in cash (less common), or via bank transfer, check the provider’s method.
Get Refund

Final Tips Before You Shop

VAT Refund

**VAT Refund**

  • Keep all receipts and invoices for eligible purchases or expenses.
  • Check your eligibility before starting the application process.
  • Request tax-free forms when shopping if you're a non-EU visitor.
  • Ensure your personal and bank details are correct to avoid delays.
  • Claim all eligible deductions such as work-related or commuting expenses.
  • Submit your application early and keep copies of all documents.
  • Use online filing services for a faster and more convenient process.
  • Review your application carefully before submission to avoid errors.

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Safe Travel and Happy Shopping!

Austria

Tax refund in Austria can be straighfoward process to claim if preparing completed documents in advance, by keeping all the shopping receipts and submitted accurate information.

You can also maximize refund and avoid unnecessary delays on your tax refund claim.

Since a little preparation can help to ensure a smooth tax refund claim, your shopping experience will be hassle free and successful.

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Feyna

Feyna

Freelance Travel Blogger

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A passionate traveler and travel blogger who loves discovering new places, cultures, and local food. I am enjoy turning my journeys into stories, sharing travel tips, hidden gems, and budget-friendly adventures to inspire others to explore the world.

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