Credit Cards & VAT

When to Use Your Credit or Debit Card

• Big-ticket purchases: Use your card for hotel stays, restaurant bills, and attractions in major cities like Paris, Rome, or Berlin, where cards are widely accepted.

• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Look for cards with no foreign transaction fees to avoid the typical 3% fee that can add up on every purchase.

• Contactless Payments: Europe is increasingly adopting contactless card payments — fast, secure, and easy for most everyday transactions.

VAT Refunds: How to Claim and Save on Shopping in Europe

One of the best-kept secrets for non-EU visitors is the VAT refund, allowing you to reclaim some of the taxes paid on purchases during your trip. Here’s how to make the most of this benefit:

• Eligible Purchases: You must spend a minimum amount (usually €100 or more) at participating retailers to qualify for a VAT refund.

• Request VAT Forms: Always ask for a VAT refund form when shopping and ensure that the store is VAT registered.

• Get Customs Stamps: Before leaving the EU, stop by Customs at the airport or border to get your VAT forms stamped. Make sure to keep your receipts and purchases handy.

• Refund Process: After getting the stamp, you can submit your paperwork at the VAT refund desk in the airport or use a service like Global Blue to receive your refund by credit card, bank transfer, or in cash.

Pro Tip: Refunds are often processed with a small administration fee, so the amount you get back may be slightly less than the total VAT paid.