Everything diplomats need to know about claiming VAT exemptions in Belgium. Learn about eligibility, the Certificate 151 process, minimum purchase requirements, and how to get your refunds faster.
Understanding Diplomatic VAT Privileges in Belgium
As a diplomat accredited in Belgium, you enjoy significant financial privileges under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. One of the most valuable benefits is the exemption from Value Added Tax (VAT), which stands at 21% in Belgium—one of the highest rates in Europe. This comprehensive guide will help you understand your entitlements and maximize your savings.
Belgium hosts over 180 diplomatic missions and thousands of accredited diplomats, making it one of the most important diplomatic hubs in the world. Whether you're newly arrived or have been stationed here for years, understanding the VAT exemption system is essential for managing your finances effectively.
Who Qualifies for Diplomatic VAT Exemption?
Diplomatic VAT exemption eligibility depends on several factors established by the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Finance:
- Heads of Mission – Ambassadors and their equivalents enjoy the broadest exemption privileges
- Diplomatic Staff – Members of diplomatic staff holding diplomatic rank
- Administrative and Technical Staff – May qualify with certain limitations based on reciprocity
- Family Members – Spouses and dependent children forming part of the diplomat's household
Your specific privileges may be affected by reciprocity rulings—bilateral agreements between Belgium and your sending state that can expand or limit standard exemptions. These rulings are updated regularly, so it's important to stay informed about your current status.
Minimum Purchase Requirements
To claim a VAT exemption as a diplomat in Belgium, your purchase must meet the minimum threshold of €125.00 excluding VAT. This applies to:
- Personal purchases for yourself and your household
- Official purchases on behalf of your diplomatic mission
The minimum amount must be reached in a single transaction at the same store on the same day. You cannot combine multiple smaller purchases to reach the threshold.
Understanding the Certificate 151 System
The Certificate 151 (also known as the E-Certificate) is the official document used to process all diplomatic VAT exemptions in Belgium. This system is mandated by the Belgian Ministry of Finance and applies to all eligible groups including diplomats, international organization staff, and military personnel.
How the Certificate 151 Works
- Make your purchase – Shop at any store in Belgium and request an invoice
- Submit documentation – Provide the invoice and Certificate 151 to your authorized operator
- Verification – The certificate is validated by the Ministry of Finance
- Refund processing – Once approved, the VAT amount is refunded to your Belgian bank account
Visit our Certificate 151 Handling page to learn more about how Nuvoni simplifies this process.
Required Documentation for VAT Exemption
To successfully claim your VAT exemption, you'll need to provide proper documentation. The invoice must include:
- A unique invoice number
- Date of purchase
- Your full name as the diplomat
- Your personal or mission address
- Complete merchant information (name, address, Belgian VAT number)
- Detailed description of purchased goods or services
- Total amount with and without VAT
- VAT breakdown by rate (21%, 12%, or 6%)
Important: Simple receipts are not accepted—only formal invoices qualify for VAT exemption processing.
Belgian Bank Account Requirement
One often-overlooked requirement is that VAT refunds can only be paid to a Belgian bank account where you are the account holder. This is a strict requirement set by the Belgian Ministry of Finance. If you haven't opened a Belgian account yet, this should be one of your first priorities upon arrival.
Common Categories for VAT Exemption
Diplomats can claim VAT exemptions on a wide range of purchases:
- Vehicles – Cars, motorcycles, and other transportation
- Furniture and home goods – Setting up your residence
- Electronics – Computers, phones, appliances
- Clothing and personal items – Everyday shopping
- Services – Certain services may also qualify
Check our Shop Anywhere feature to see how you can get VAT refunds from virtually any store in Belgium.
Why Choose Nuvoni for Your VAT Refunds?
Nuvoni is Belgium's first fully digital VAT refund platform, designed specifically for diplomats and privileged groups. Here's why thousands of diplomats trust us:
- 100% Digital Process – No paper forms, no postal mail, no queues
- Fast Refunds – Get your money back in days, not months
- Real-Time Tracking – Monitor every claim through our app
- Expert Support – Our team understands diplomatic protocols
- Transparent Pricing – Check our pricing page for clear, upfront fees
Switching to Nuvoni from Another Operator
If you're currently using another VAT refund operator and want to switch to Nuvoni, the process is straightforward:
- Inform your current operator of your cancellation request
- Copy info@nuvoni.eu in your communication
- Sign up via our web app
- Start submitting your invoices immediately
Note: Per Ministry of Finance regulations, there's a two-month transition period before we can process your claims. However, you can submit invoices during this period, and we'll process them once the transition is complete.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions about diplomatic VAT refunds? Visit our comprehensive FAQ section or contact our team for personalized assistance.
Get Started Today
Don't leave money on the table. As a diplomat in Belgium, you're entitled to significant VAT savings on your purchases. Book a demo to see how Nuvoni can simplify your VAT refund process, or sign up directly through our app to start claiming your exemptions today.