Austria Tax Refund Guide : VAT Refund for Tourists Explained

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?

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?

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: 

Who Can Claim?

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

What’s Not Eligible?

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.

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.

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.

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.

Final Tips Before You Shop

**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.

Safe Travel and Happy Shopping!

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.