Insider Tips for Tax-Free Shopping in Singapore

While duty-free shopping is available worldwide, Singapore stands out as a premier destination for this experience. As an international traveler, you can enjoy exclusive tax exemptions here. Notably, a 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) will be refunded at Changi Airport before departure.

Insider Tips for Tax-Free Shopping in Singapore

Starting from 19/8/2012, Singapore implemented the Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme (eTRS). With this new system, tourists will undergo a simplified tax refund process.

For eTRS, you need to register a credit or debit card as a 'mark' for tax-free shopping. Of course, you can still shop with other cards, but only registered cards can be used for the refund process.

Step 1: At the store

Explore stores adorned with green stickers proclaiming 'Tax Free Shopping' or 'Premier Tax Free' and indulge in shopping there.

To qualify for a tax refund, your invoice must be a minimum of S$100 (US$64), applicable to each individual receipt or a maximum of 3 receipts for purchases on the same day at one store.

If the store has an eTRS system, the staff will provide you with an eTRS ticket for the purchased items during payment. Keep all receipts and the eTRS ticket for the subsequent refund process.

If the store lacks an eTRS system, present your passport during payment and request the staff to provide a global tax refund cheque or tax refund document. This applies to retail points. Retain all documentation for customs clearance before your departure.

Step 2: At the airport

For items with an eTRS ticket, head to the self-service eTRS machine at the airport. There are two machine locations: one in the check-in area for checked baggage and another in the transit area for carry-on luggage.

At the self-service eTRS machine, use your pre-registered passport and credit card to access information. Alternatively, scan the eTRS ticket received from the store where you made the purchase. Then, follow the self-service eTRS machine instructions to process the GST refund.

For items without an eTRS ticket but with a paper tax refund receipt, visit the Customs Control counter to get it stamped. Present your passport, documents, goods, and all receipts for customs inspection. Note that incomplete documentation may result in your refund request not being processed.

Step 3: Receive the refund

If you choose to receive the refund directly to your pre-registered credit card at the self-service eTRS machine, you can board the plane without any further procedures.

If you opt for a cash refund, go to the Refund Counter at the departure lounge to receive the money.

Refund Authority GTS in Singapore:

Most stores in Singapore are affiliated with one of two tax refund agencies:

– Global Blue Singapore (+65-6225-6238; www.global-blue.com)

– Premier Tax Free (+65-6293-3811;www.premiertaxfree.com)

Some exceptions regarding GST refunds:

All travelers aged 16 and above have the right to request a refund, except in the following cases:

• Being a citizen or resident of Singapore (excluding international students).
• Residing in Singapore for more than 365 days in the 24 months prior to the purchase.
• Working in Singapore for 6 months or more before the purchase.
• Being a member of a flight crew or transit crew in Singapore.

International students studying in Singapore can still request a tax refund if they meet the following criteria:

• The purchase must be made at least 4 months before the student pass expiration date.
• Goods must be taken out of Singapore at least 2 months after the purchase.
• Students must leave Singapore for at least 12 months.

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Source: Mytour Travel Guide