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Buying goods online for personal use

  1. Overview
  2. Buying goods from outside the European Union (EU), including the UK
  3. Buying goods from a European Union (EU) country
  4. Buying goods from the Canary Islands
  5. How to locate your goods following arrival to Ireland
  6. How to pay your import charges
  7. How to claim a refund of Customs Duty and Value-Added Tax (VAT)

How to claim a refund of Customs Duty and Value-Added Tax (VAT)

In certain circumstances, it may be possible to receive a refund of customs duties paid, provided the goods you bought have been returned to the seller.

Note

You cannot claim a refund until after payment of the customs charges.

Parcels delivered by An Post

If your goods were delivered by An Post, you must contact An Post directly. The contact details should be included in any correspondence received in connection with your delivery.

Parcels delivered by a courier or express carrier

You should contact the company who delivered your parcel. The contact details should have accompanied your parcel.

In all cases, you should submit the following to claim a refund

  • Your full name and address.
  • The reason for your refund request, for example, returns or replacements.
  • Proof of payment of Customs Duties and VAT.
  • A copy of the invoice, and any other relevant documents.
  • Proof that the goods were returned, for example, an email from the seller stating that the goods have been returned.

Further information

If you require further information, you can contact Customs.

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