If you are travelling from outside the European Union (EU), you are entitled to a tax refund on your purchases in Sweden.
Tax-free shopping in Sweden allows visitors outside the European Union (EU) to claim a refund on the value-added tax (VAT) paid on eligible goods purchased during their stay.
Standard VAT rate: 25%
Food: 12%
Books: 6%
Refunds are paid on items that are exported in the traveller’s luggage.
Refundable items must be unused.
Non Refundable goods
- Alcohol
- Boats
- Vehicles
- Services
See also
Tax-free shopping is available to non-EU residents, including tourists and visitors who are not residents of Sweden or the EU. EU residents who have lived outside the EU for at least 12 months are also eligible.
To qualify for tax-free shopping, you typically must spend a minimum amount on eligible goods in a single store on the same day. The minimum purchase amount may vary, but it is usually around SEK 200 (Swedish Krona).
When making your tax-free purchase, you must present a valid passport or identity card to prove your non-EU residency.
To claim a tax refund, you must obtain a Tax-Free Shopping Cheque (also known as a Global Blue Cheque or similar) from the retailer at the time of purchase. When leaving the EU, you must present your purchases, receipts, and passport to customs for validation. After validation, you can receive the refund in cash, credit card refund, or bank transfer.
Global Blue, Tax Free Worldwide, and Premier Tax Free are among the leading tax refund companies operating in Sweden.
Before leaving Sweden, you must present your purchased goods, the tax-free form, and passport to Swedish customs officials at the departure point (e.g., airport, seaport). They will validate the form by stamping it.
There are different options for obtaining your tax refund. You can get an immediate refund in cash at certain refund offices or receive a refund via credit card or bank transfer after submitting the validated tax-free form to the tax refund company by mail or using electronic refund kiosks.
The time limit for validating your form is three months + the month of purchase. Check the specific requirements of the tax refund company or service you choose.
Some goods, such as consumable items, food, and services, may not be eligible for tax-free shopping. Additionally, you may need to carry the purchased goods with you and present them to customs officials upon request.
It's important to note that tax refund policies and procedures may vary between retailers, companies, and countries. Therefore, before purchasing, you should familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and conditions of the tax refund service you intend to use.
9. Participating stores
Look for stores displaying the Tax-Free Shopping logo or ask the retailer if they offer tax-free shopping services.
Remember to familiarize yourself with the specific requirements and procedures of the tax refund company you're using, as they may vary slightly. Additionally, it is advisable to keep all receipts and documentation in good order to facilitate the refund process.
