Somebody clarify, please! Is the VAT we pay on renting a cottage or a car refundable through the same airport methods as mechandise VAT? Another method? Thanks!

Nope, sorry. Wouldn't it be nice. (although it can be if it's a business expense....a whole other accounting issue)

bebe.

No.

Curious

Hi Bebe,

One more "no".

To expand on the "No's" - VAT is refunded on some items taken out of the country. Not refunded on services or things consumed in-country. So no refunds (except in limited business situations) on: Petrol, Hotels, Meals, Admissions Charges, Train/Air/Bus tickets and so on.

Another "no".

But for Americans traveling to Canada, they can get a VAT refund on hotel rooms. This encourages tourism.

To the previous message that VAT is refundable on lodging in Canada in order to promote tourism, Britain take note. With the recent report that London has the most expensive hotel rooms, refunding the VAT on lodging would likely be a huge boost to the UK. Personally, I would stay longer and spend more.