Foreign visitors to South Africa can claim back 15% VAT (Value Added Tax) on goods they take out of the country, provided the total value of purchases exceeds R250. Here’s your 2025 step-by-step guide to claiming your VAT refund quickly and hassle-free at OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town and King Shaka International Airport (DUR) in Durban.
Who can claim a VAT refund?
- Foreign tourists and non-resident diplomats leaving South Africa
- Goods must be taken out of South Africa via a designated exit point
- Total purchases must exceed R250 (VAT inclusive)
- Refunds apply to goods only – not services (like tours, hotels, or car hire)
Step 1: Ask for a valid tax invoice
When shopping, request a tax invoice for all purchases you intend to claim. A valid tax invoice must include:
- The words “Tax Invoice”
- The seller’s VAT registration number
- A unique invoice number
- The date of purchase
- The buyer’s name and address (required if purchase is over R5,000)
- The seller’s name and address
- The amount of VAT charged (or a note that 15% VAT is included)
- A full description and quantity of goods
- Tip: Only original tax invoices are accepted — no copies or photos.
Step 2: Present goods & invoices before check-in
At the airport, you must show both your goods and stamped tax invoices before you check in:
- Find a VAT Refund or Customs Inspection Desk in the departure hall
- If your purchases are in checked luggage, get them inspected and stamped before you hand them over
- Keep your boarding pass, passport, and stamped invoices together for Step 3
- Goods must leave South Africa within 90 days of purchase to qualify.
Step 3: Submit your claim & get paid
Head to the VAT Refund Office at:
- OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg): Terminal A Duty Free Mall
- Cape Town International Airport: Central Terminal Building (before security)
- King Shaka International Airport (Durban): International Departures
Present your passport, boarding pass, and stamped invoices. Once processed, your refund is loaded onto a VAT Refund Card, which works like a prepaid MasterCard®. You can:
- Withdraw cash at any ATM worldwide (outside South Africa, Lesotho, Namibia, and Eswatini)
- Spend it anywhere that accepts MasterCard®
Important things to know
- Time limit: Your claim must reach the VAT Refund Administrator (VRA) within 90 days of export
- Large purchases: Over R10,000? Proof of payment may be required
- Exclusions: No refunds on services, consumables partially used before departure, or goods not presented for inspection
- Be early: Arrive at the airport well ahead of your flight to allow time for inspection and processing
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I claim VAT on hotel stays, tours, or car rentals?
No – the refund applies only to physical goods you take with you when leaving South Africa. Services are excluded.
Q2: How much must I spend to qualify for a VAT refund?
The total value of all goods (VAT inclusive) must exceed R250.
Q3: Do I have to carry all my purchases as hand luggage?
Not necessarily. If your purchases are packed in checked luggage, you must present them to a customs or VAT official for inspection before check-in.
Q4: How long does it take to receive my VAT refund?
Refunds are usually processed on the spot and loaded onto your VAT Refund Card. However, some transactions may take a few days to reflect.
Q5: Can I claim a refund if I’m leaving South Africa by road?
Yes, but only through designated land border posts where a VAT Refund Administrator (VRA) office or customs desk is present.
Q6: What happens if I forget to get my invoices stamped?
Unfortunately, unstamped invoices do not qualify for a refund. Make sure to complete the inspection process before leaving.
Q7: Is there a maximum amount I can claim?
No set limit, but purchases over R10,000 may require proof of payment (like a credit card slip) and additional verification.
Q8: What if my flight is very early or very late?
VAT Refund desks operate daily, but check airport opening hours ahead of time - especially for smaller border posts or regional airports.
Claiming your VAT refund in South Africa is straightforward if you plan ahead - keep your invoices, allow time at the airport, and make sure your purchases meet the requirements. Add this to your departure checklist and make your trip even more rewarding!
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