Mastering VAT Refund in Bangkok: A Shopper's Guide at Don Mueang Airport

February 22, 2024

During my recent trip to Bangkok, I hadn't planned on buying anything expensive, so I thought I wouldn't need to deal with VAT refund procedures. However, my earphones broke just as I encountered an Apple Store in Bangkok, leading me to purchase AirPods.

Here's a guide on how I processed my VAT refund at Don Mueang Airport (Don Mueang).

One of the benefits of shopping abroad is the VAT refund! Although it's frustrating not being able to open your purchase immediately, I decided to wait until I returned home to proceed with the VAT refund.

Purchasing the Product

First, get the tax-free paperwork filled out at the store. I bought my AirPods at an Apple Store, which is eligible for tax-free shopping in Thailand. By mentioning that I wanted to process a VAT refund, they prepared the "VAT Refund Application Form" for me immediately. Remember to present your passport for this procedure. Also, there are certain conditions to be eligible for a VAT refund (e.g., purchases over 2000 Baht, from stores displaying "VAT REFUND FOR TOURIST" etc.), so please check if you qualify.

More detailed information can be found on the Thai government's official site.

This is the screen shot for the VAT process

Procedures After Arriving at the Airport

Upon returning, make sure to bring the items to the airport without packing them in your checked luggage.

Once at the airport, first, get a stamp for tax refund procedures. In Terminal 2 of Don Mueang Airport, the stamp booth is located deep on the left side after entering. There are signs, so you shouldn't get lost, but it's quite far back, so don't hesitate to go straight ahead.

When I was there, items below 5,000 Baht didn't require a stamp, and they returned my documents without stamping them. If your items aren't very expensive, you might not need a stamp (as of February 2024).

After getting the stamp, go through the normal immigration check and enter the airport.

Procedures After Immigration

After passing through security, you'll find the VAT refund counter immediately on the right. Take the stamped document, the items, and your passport to the counter. I opted for a cash refund and received the cash on the spot.

This completes the VAT refund process.

Conclusion

The VAT refund process might seem cumbersome if you're not sure what to do, but it's surprisingly simple once you look into it. If you have time, I recommend going through the process. It feels like receiving unexpected pocket money, which is quite delightful!

As I had no use for Thai Baht, I spent all the refunded cash at the airport. The amount was enough for some souvenirs, so I used it happily, thinking of it as a stroke of luck.

In the end, I was left with 4 Baht (about 15 yen), which I donated, thus ending my trip to Thailand.

I hope this helps someone.

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