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Tax Refund Guide

Foreign tourists can claim 11% tax refund on qualifying purchases in China.

Foreign tourists shopping in China can claim an 11% VAT refund on qualifying purchases. You need to spend at least 500 CNY at a tax-refund designated store, keep all receipts and tax refund forms, and process the refund at the airport customs before departure. The net refund is approximately 9% after a 2% processing fee.

Features

Eligibility Requirements

Foreign passport holder, staying less than 183 days in China, purchases from tax-refund designated stores (look for blue/orange tax-free logo), minimum 500 CNY per store per day.

Qualifying Items

Eligible: Clothing, electronics, cosmetics, tea, silk, jewelry. NOT eligible: Food/beverages consumed in China, services, prohibited export items. Items must be unused and in original packaging.

Tax Refund Stores

Look for Tax Refund or退税商店 signs. Major department stores and luxury brand shops participate. Shanghai and Beijing have the most participating stores. Ask: Can I get a tax refund?

Refund Process

Purchase at designated store and request the tax refund form. Keep receipt, form, and goods. At airport, go to customs desk BEFORE check-in for stamp. After security, go to tax refund counter.

Refund Amounts & Fees

VAT rate: 11% refund on qualifying goods. Processing fee: about 2% deducted by agent. Net refund: approximately 9%. Cash refund may have additional service charge. Card refund: 1-3 months to process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't open or use items before customs inspection. Don't check in luggage with refund items before customs stamp. Keep ALL receipts organized. Start the process early as airport queues can be long.

Usage Guide

1

Step 1

Confirm your eligibility (foreign passport, staying less than 183 days)

2

Step 2

Shop at tax-refund designated stores (look for the tax-free logo)

3

Step 3

Ensure minimum 500 CNY purchase at one store on the same day

4

Step 4

Request the tax refund form and receipt from the store staff

5

Step 5

Keep the tax refund form, receipt, and goods safe

6

Step 6

At the airport, go to customs inspection counter BEFORE check-in

7

Step 7

Show goods and tax refund form for customs inspection and stamp

8

Step 8

After security and immigration, find the tax refund window

9

Step 9

Choose refund method: cash (RMB), credit card, or Alipay

10

Step 10

Collect your refund

Pro Tips

  • Minimum purchase 500 CNY at a single tax-refund store on the same day
  • Keep ALL receipts and tax refund forms
  • Goods must leave China within 90 days of purchase
  • Claim at airport before check-in at customs inspection
  • Arrive 3+ hours early at the airport
  • Don't open or use items before customs inspection
  • Don't check in luggage with refund items before customs stamp
  • Don't forget to get the refund form at time of purchase

FAQ

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