Reclaiming overseas VAT

From 1 January 2010, to claim a refund of VAT you have paid in another EU county you must complete an online claim in the UK. You no longer have to battle with a multitude of forms in foreign languages, as the claim can be done entirely in English. The UK tax office will forward your claim to the relevant country, which will process the refund within four months of receipt. You should then receive the payment due within a further 10 days.

To make VAT refund claims in respect of VAT paid in other EU countries you (or your accountant) need to first register to use the Tax Office VAT EU refunds system, which is part of the VAT online service.

The minimum amount of the VAT to be included in each claim has been standardised at €400 per quarter.  For further information see VAT notice number 723A: Refunds of VAT in the European Community.