How to claim a China tax refund? You can claim a China tax refund by submitting eligible purchase receipts and refund forms at designated refund counters before leaving the country. This process applies to tourists and exporters, covering details like VAT rates, service fees, and where to get your refund. Keep reading to learn how to maximize your savings and make your refund process quick and hassle-free.
What Is China Tax Refund?
Credit: Unsplash | China offers tax refunds to boost tourism and exports.
Type | What’s Covered | Refund Rate |
Tourist VAT Refund | Goods purchased by foreign tourists (e.g., electronics, luxury items). | 8–11% of purchase value |
Export VAT Refund | VAT paid on exported goods (e.g., machinery, textiles). | 0–16%, varies by industry |
Individual Tax Refund | Overpaid income tax (e.g., due to deductions for education, healthcare). | Depends on overpayment |
Diplomatic Refund | Specific goods/services for foreign diplomats (e.g., utilities, vehicles). | Case-by-case basis |
Who Is Eligible for a Tax Refund in China?
Credit: Unsplash | Different groups eligible for tax refunds in China.
Tourists
- Foreign passport holders or visitors from Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan staying less than 183 days.
- Minimum spending of RMB 500 in one store per day (nationwide chains count as a single store).
Exporters
- Legally registered businesses exporting non-prohibited goods.
Individuals
- Residents or expats who overpaid income tax (e.g., due to deductions like mortgage interest, education, or healthcare).
Diplomats
- Foreign embassy staff purchasing eligible items (e.g., building materials, vehicles).
Note: The total amount refunded through the departure tax-refund scheme rose about 97.4% in the first nine months of 2025. (source from China Daily)
Requirements for a China Tax Refund
Credit: Unsplash | Different requirements for various visitors.
For Tourists
- Keep invoices and request a Tax Refund Form at the store at the time of purchase.
- Get a customs stamp at your departure point (show the goods, receipts, and passport).
- Submit the stamped form at refund counters (airports/banks) or via Alipay/WeChat.
For Exporters
- Submit export documents (contracts, customs declarations, invoices).
- Apply through China’s electronic tax system (e.g., China Electronic Port).
For Individuals
- File via the Personal Income Tax App (March 1–June 30 annually).
- Provide proof of deductions (e.g., mortgage interest, education costs).
For Diplomats
- Apply quarterly through your employer (e.g., embassy).
- Submit receipts for eligible purchases (e.g., minimum RMB 2,000 per item).
Pro Tips:
- Tourists: Claim refunds within 90 days of purchase and ensure goods are unused until departure.
- Exporters: Refunds are typically processed within 1 month if all documents are complete.
- Individuals: Double-check your deductions and file on time to avoid delays.
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How Tax Refund Amounts Are Calculated?
Credit: Unsplash | Refunds are based on the item’s VAT and service fees.
Your refund depends on the item’s VAT rate and service fees:
- Calculate VAT Paid:
- Example: A ¥10,000 watch with 13% VAT → ¥1,300 VAT.
- Apply Refund Rate:
- Luxury items: 11% of ¥10,000 = ¥1,100.
- Deduct Service Fee:
- 2% of ¥1,100 = ¥22 → Net refund = ¥1,078.
China Tax Refund Options: Cash, Mobile Pay vs. Credit Card
Choose the refund method that suits your needs:
Method | Best For | Processing Time | Limits |
Cash (Airport) | Immediate payment | On-the-spot | Max ¥10,000 refund |
Alipay (better)/WeChat | Digital convenience | 3–5 days | Max ¥10,000 refund |
Credit/Debit Card | Large purchases | 14–22 days | Min ¥10,000 refund |
Pro Tip: For refunds over ¥10,000, credit/debit card is your only option.
How to Claim a Tax Refund in China?
Credit: Unsplash | Find tax-free stores during your travel!
Step 1: Shop at Tax-Free Stores
Start by shopping at stores that participate in the tax refund program. Look for the “Tax-Free” logo, which is common in major malls like Beijing’s SKP or Shanghai’s Plaza 66, as well as duty-free stores in Hainan.
- Minimum Spend: You need to spend at least ¥500 RMB in a single store per day.
- Combining Purchases: If you shop at chain stores (e.g., Uniqlo or Apple), you can combine receipts from different branches nationwide to meet the minimum.
- Eligible Items: Electronics, luxury goods (bags, watches), cosmetics, and jewelry. Non-eligible items include food, services, or items consumed in China.
Step 2: Request a Tax Refund Form
At the checkout counter:
- Show your passport (original or a clear photo on your phone).
- Ask the staff for a “Tax Refund Form” (退税单). They will attach your purchase receipts and stamp the form.
- Double-check: Make sure your name, passport number, and purchase amount are correct on the form.
Step 3: Customs Validation Before Departure
Before you check in your luggage, visit the Customs Desk at your departure airport or port (e.g., Beijing Capital Airport Terminal 3 or Shanghai Pudong).
What to Bring:
- Unused goods (keep them in their original packaging).
- Tax refund forms and receipts.
- Your passport and boarding pass.
Process:
- Customs will inspect your items and stamp your refund forms.
- If your items are in checked luggage, do this before dropping your bags. For carry-ons, visit the customs desk after security.
Important Reminders:
- Time Limit: Validate your forms within 90 days of purchase.
- Inspection: Be prepared to show the items if requested.
Step 4: Claim Your Refund
Once your forms are stamped, choose your preferred refund method:
Airport/Port Counters (Instant Cash):
- Look for Global Blue or Premier Tax Free counters (after security at major airports).
- Get cash in RMB, USD, or EUR.
Downtown Refund Offices (Same-day Cash):
- Cities like Beijing (Wangfujing) and Shanghai (Nanjing Road) have offices where you can claim refunds before departure.
Digital Refunds (Fast & Easy):
- Alipay(Recommend)/WeChat: Scan your stamped forms using the apps’ “Tax Refund” feature. Money will be transferred to your account in 3-5 days.
- Credit Card: Drop your forms in the airport’s refund mailbox. Refunds take 10-15 days.
Pro Tips to Maximize Your Refund
- Save More: Refunds range from 8% to 12% (higher for luxury goods). Ask staff about special promotions.
- Avoid Fees: Cash refunds at counters are free, but credit card refunds may deduct 2-5% in fees.
- Organize Documents: Keep all receipts and forms in a folder for easy access.
- Pack Smart: Keep high-value items (e.g., jewelry) easily accessible for inspection.
Note: With the scheme optimised (more stores, more product categories, more convenience) retailers have incentive to join the “tax-refund network”. In fact, the number of dedicated stores rose sharply. (source from Global Times)
Tax Refund Rules in Top Chinese Cities
Credit: Unsplash | China’s tax refund policies can vary depending on the city.
Beijing Tax Refund
Where to Shop: Major shopping hubs like SKP, Wangfujing, and The Place offer tax-free shopping. | Look for the “Tax-Free” logo at stores.
Key Rules:
- Minimum Spend: ¥500 RMB in a single store per day.
- Customs Validation: Available at Beijing Capital International Airport (Terminals 2 and 3) and Daxing International Airport.
- Refund Counters: Global Blue and Premier Tax Free counters are located after security.
- Downtown Refund: Visit the Wangfujing Tax Refund Office for instant cash refunds before departure.
Shanghai Tax Refund
Where to Shop: Popular spots include Nanjing Road, Plaza 66, and Xintiandi. | Duty-free stores in Pudong Airport also qualify.
Key Rules:
- Minimum Spend: ¥500 RMB in a single store per day.
- Customs Validation: Available at Pudong International Airport (Terminals 1 and 2) and Hongqiao International Airport.
- Refund Counters: Global Blue and Premier Tax Free counters are located after security.
- Downtown Refund: Visit the Nanjing Road Tax Refund Office for instant cash refunds.
Shenzhen Tax Refund
Where to Shop: Major malls like COCO Park, MixC, and Huaqiangbei offer tax-free shopping.
Key Rules:
- Minimum Spend: ¥500 RMB in a single store per day.
- Customs Validation: Available at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport and Shekou Cruise Port.
- Refund Counters: Global Blue and Premier Tax Free counters are located after security.
- If traveling to Hong Kong, validate your forms at the Shekou Cruise Port before departure.
Guangzhou Tax Refund
Where to Shop: Popular shopping destinations include Tianhe District, Zhengjia Plaza, and Beijing Road.
Key Rules:
- Minimum Spend: ¥500 RMB in a single store per day.
- Customs Validation: Available at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (Terminals 1 and 2).
- Refund Counters: Global Blue and Premier Tax Free counters are located after security.
China Tax Refund Locations: Where to Claim?
Downtown refund offices (e.g., Shanghai’s Nanjing Road) let you claim cash before heading to the airport.
City | Key Refund Locations |
Beijing | Capital Airport (Terminals 2 & 3), Daxing Airport, Wangfujing Tax Refund Office. |
Shanghai | Pudong Airport (Terminals 1 & 2), Hongqiao Airport, Nanjing Road Refund Office. |
Guangzhou | Baiyun Airport (Terminals 1 & 2), downtown offices in Tianhe District. |
Shenzhen | Bao’an Airport, Shekou Cruise Port, MixC Mall refund counters. |
Common Mistakes to Avoid with China Tax Refunds
Credit: Unsplash | China tax refund can save money, but mistakes may cause delays.
Claiming a tax refund in China can save you money, but mistakes can lead to delays or even forfeiture of your refund. Here are the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Forgetting to Get a Customs Stamp Before Departure
Without a customs stamp, your tax refund form is invalid, and you won’t receive your refund.
How to Avoid It:
- Plan Ahead: Visit the Customs Desk at the airport or port before checking in your luggage.
- Bring Everything: Carry your unused goods, receipts, passport, and tax refund forms for inspection.
- Double-Check: Ensure customs stamps are clear and legible on all forms.
Missing the 30-Day Refund Window
If you don’t claim your refund within 30 days of customs validation, you’ll lose your eligibility.
How to Avoid It:
- Claim Immediately: Submit your stamped forms at the airport refund counter or via Alipay/WeChat before leaving China.
- Mail on Time: If using the mailbox option, ensure forms are dropped off well before the deadline.
- Set Reminders: Mark the deadline on your calendar to avoid forgetting.=
Losing Original Receipts or Tax Forms
Original receipts and tax forms are mandatory for refunds. Lost documents mean no refund.
How to Avoid It:
- Organize: Keep all receipts and forms in a dedicated folder or envelope.
- Backup: Take photos of your receipts and forms as a precaution.
- Store Safely: Store documents in a secure place (e.g., a zipped bag or hotel safe) until departure.
Buying Non-Eligible Items (e.g., Food, Services)
Items like food, services, or goods consumed in China are not eligible for tax refunds.
How to Avoid It:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm with store staff if items qualify for tax refunds.
- Focus on Goods: Stick to eligible items like electronics, luxury goods, cosmetics, and jewelry.
- Read Policies: Familiarize yourself with the list of non-eligible items before shopping.
FAQs about China Tax Refund
Who is eligible for a China tax refund?
Foreign tourists and qualified exporters who make eligible purchases in China.What items qualify for a China tax refund?
Goods bought at stores displaying the “Tax Free” logo and not used before departure.Where can I claim my China tax refund?
At designated tax refund counters in international airports, ports, or border crossings.What documents do I need for a China tax refund?
Your passport, tax refund form, original receipts, and the unused goods.How long does it take to receive a China tax refund?
Refunds are usually processed on the spot in cash or credited to your card within weeks.