Buying goods online for personal use

Refund of Customs Duty and Value-Added Tax (VAT)

Goods Valued at €150 or less

If you return an item purchased from outside the EU, you may not be refunded the Customs Duty and VAT. Consumers should check the retailers returns policy before ordering.

Where a consumer changes their mind regarding the purchase and returns items to the original supplier, the €3 Customs duties will not be refunded by the Customs authorities.

If goods are defective or do not conform to the terms of contract, you must first contact the platform or seller. Then contact the courier or postal operator who processed the customs import formalities on your behalf regarding a refund of Customs duties and VAT.

Note

If you paid Irish VAT directly to the platform or seller at point of sale (IOSS), you may apply for and receive this as part of your overall refund from the retailer. Subject to the terms and conditions of platform or seller.

Goods Valued at over €150

Consumers should check the terms and conditions for returns policy before ordering.

You will need to engage with the courier or postal operator who processed the import formalities for your consignment when applying for a refund of Customs Duty and, or VAT on items that are returned.

Revenue do not issue refunds directly to consumers or individuals in any circumstances.

Next: Fraudulent Emails, SMS (Text Messages) and Phone Calls