Shopping and Tax Advantages for Tourists in Singapore

Singapore is famous for its amazing range of shopping options, but did you know tourists can claim back the 7% Goods and Services Tax (GST) once you leave the country? Most large retailers and chain stores in Singapore participate in the Tourist Refund Scheme; just look for a blue sign saying either "Tax Free Shopping" or "Premier Tax Free". As the minimum spend is $100, you should always confirm with the retailer that they are participating in the scheme, just to be on the safe side.

Not all goods and services purchased are eligible for a GST refund. Goods partly or wholly consumed in Singapore, items purchased for business or commercial use, goods exported by freight, accommodation, car rental, entertainment and tour charges are all ineligible for a GST refund.

The first step to getting your GST refund is to claim the Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme (eTRS) ticket or a paper refund form from the cashier during your purchase. Make sure you have your passport with you as you will need this as proof of eligibility.

Make sure you keep the ticket or form safe as you will need them at the time of departure.
When arriving at Changi Airport for your departure, make sure you claim your refund before you check in for your flight as you may need to present the items you purchased to the customs officer. If you have an eTRS ticket you can claim your refund at the eTRS self-service kiosk. Keep in mind that even with the self-service option, you still might need to show your goods and the original receipt / invoice. This can be done at the Customs Inspection Counter. If you have a paper refund form, you can just head straight to the Customs Inspection Counter to have your claim approved. Once you receive your customs stamp you can check your luggage in along with the purchased goods.

Customs Inspection Counters and eTRS kiosks are available in all terminals of Changi Airport.

Once you have your customs stamp and have checked in your luggage, proceed through immigration and head to either the Global Blue Refund or Premier Tax Free counter. The one specific to your needs can be found in the documents you received from either the kiosk or the Customs Inspection Counter. Keep in mind that for credit card refunds, the credit card receiving the refund must be the same card that was used for the original purchase. Make sure you are familiar with all the differences between the two systems. In some cases a retailer may operate a refund scheme of their own. In this case please use the airport postbox to mail in the endorsed refund form. In these cases you may have to pay a small handling fee.

The retail experience in Singapore is something every dedicated shopper must experience at least once in their life, especially during the annual Great Singapore Sale. Tips like this can help you save money and make your time in Singapore more pleasurable.

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