Planning to shop in Belgium? Learn how non-EU tourists can claim up to 21% VAT refund on purchases. Step-by-step guide covering eligibility, minimum amounts, and the fastest refund methods.
Welcome to Tax-Free Shopping in Belgium
Belgium is a shopper's paradise, home to world-famous chocolate, designer fashion, antiques, and luxury goods. As a tourist from outside the European Union, you can enjoy tax-free shopping and claim back up to 21% VAT on your purchases—that's one of the highest refund rates in Europe!
Whether you're visiting Brussels for the Grand Place, Antwerp for diamonds and fashion, or Bruges for its medieval charm, this guide will help you maximize your savings through the Belgian VAT refund system.
Who Qualifies for Tourist VAT Refunds?
To be eligible for tax-free shopping in Belgium, you must meet these requirements:
- Non-EU Resident – Your permanent residence must be outside the European Union
- Valid Identification – You need a passport or ID proving your non-EU residency
- Export Requirement – Goods must leave the EU within 3 months of purchase
- Personal Use – Items must be for personal use, not commercial resale
Citizens of the UK (post-Brexit), USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, China, and all other non-EU countries qualify for VAT refunds when visiting Belgium.
Minimum Purchase Amount
To qualify for a VAT refund, you need to spend a minimum of €125.01 (excluding VAT) at the same store on the same day. This translates to approximately €151 including VAT at the standard 21% rate.
Pro Tip: If you're close to the minimum, consider buying everything at once rather than making separate smaller purchases on different days.
Understanding Belgian VAT Rates
Belgium applies different VAT rates depending on the product category:
- 21% Standard Rate – Most goods including electronics, clothing, jewelry, luxury items
- 12% Reduced Rate – Certain food products like margarine
- 6% Reduced Rate – Books, basic food items, some medications
The standard 21% rate applies to most shopping categories, meaning substantial savings on fashion, electronics, and souvenirs.
Step-by-Step: How to Get Your VAT Refund
Step 1: Shop and Request an Invoice
When making your purchase, inform the store that you'd like to claim a VAT refund. Request a proper invoice (not just a receipt) that includes:
- Store name, address, and VAT number
- Your name and address
- Description of items purchased
- Price with and without VAT
- Date of purchase
Step 2: Register Your Purchase with Nuvoni
Unlike traditional paper-based tax-free systems, Nuvoni offers a fully digital solution. Simply:
- Download the Nuvoni app or visit our web platform
- Create your account with your passport details
- Upload a photo of your invoice
- We handle all the paperwork from there
Step 3: Customs Validation at the Airport
When departing the EU (from any EU airport, not just Belgium), you'll need customs validation. Nuvoni submits an electronic request to Belgian Customs on your behalf. In most cases, this is processed automatically, but customs officers may ask to see your goods.
Important Tips for the Airport:
- Arrive early—allow extra time for the customs process
- Keep purchased items accessible (not in checked luggage)
- Have your invoices and passport ready
- Goods must be unused and in original packaging
Step 4: Receive Your Refund
Once customs validation is complete, Nuvoni processes your refund. We offer multiple payout options:
- Credit/Debit Card – Direct refund to your card
- PayPal – Quick transfer to your PayPal account
- European Bank Account – SEPA transfer
Check our transparent pricing to understand the fees and choose the best option for you.
What Products Are Eligible?
Most goods purchased in Belgium qualify for VAT refunds, including:
- Fashion and Clothing – Belgian and international designer brands
- Chocolate and Food – Belgium's world-famous pralines and treats (for export)
- Jewelry and Watches – Including Antwerp diamonds
- Electronics – Cameras, phones, laptops
- Art and Antiques – Brussels has excellent antique markets
- Cosmetics and Perfumes – High-end beauty products
Items NOT Eligible for VAT Refund
- Tobacco products
- Services (hotels, restaurants, transportation)
- Items consumed or used before leaving the EU
- Commercial quantities intended for resale
Why Choose Nuvoni Over Traditional Tax-Free Services?
Traditional tax-free shopping involves paper forms, manual stamps, and long refund waits. Nuvoni is different:
- No Paper Forms – Everything is digital through our app
- Shop Anywhere – Unlike traditional operators, you can shop at any store in Belgium
- Faster Refunds – Get your money in days, not weeks
- Better Rates – Competitive fees mean more money back in your pocket
- Easy Tracking – Monitor your refund status in real-time
Belgium Shopping Highlights
Make the most of your tax-free shopping with these Belgian specialties:
- Brussels – Luxury boutiques on Avenue Louise, chocolate shops near Grand Place
- Antwerp – Diamond district, fashion from the Antwerp Six designers
- Bruges – Lace, handmade chocolates, artisan crafts
- Ghent – Vintage shops, local designer boutiques
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit our FAQ section for answers to common questions about tourist VAT refunds, or contact us if you need personalized help.
Start Saving Today
Don't pay more than you need to when shopping in Belgium. Sign up for Nuvoni before your trip and enjoy seamless, digital tax-free shopping. Your 21% savings awaits!