Beautiful beaches, affordable hotels, and fascinating excursions are the main ingredients of a great holiday in Cyprus. But for many tourists, there's one more essential part of the trip that can't be forgotten — shopping.

Whether it’s a wardrobe update, souvenirs, or local specialties like olive oil, wine, spices, natural cosmetics, or handmade jewelry, Cyprus offers plenty of shopping opportunities. And here's the best part: if you're a non-EU visitor, you can take advantage of the Tax Free system and get part of your money back.

Let’s break down how Tax Free shopping in Cyprus works, and how to claim your VAT refund easily.

What Is Tax Free?

Tax Free refers to a VAT (Value Added Tax) refund system designed for foreign tourists. In Cyprus, the VAT rate is 19%, and non-EU visitors are eligible to reclaim this tax on qualifying purchases made during their trip.

Since VAT is already included in the price tag of most goods, reclaiming it means you get money back after you leave the country — simply for shopping!

Who Can Claim a Tax Free Refund in Cyprus?

To qualify for a VAT refund, you must:

Be a non-EU resident

Make purchases for personal use only

Export the goods outside the EU within the allowed timeframe

✅ Eligible: Tourists from the UK, USA, UAE, Israel, Russia, Ukraine, etc.
❌ Not eligible: EU residents, Cypriot nationals, or foreign citizens residing in Cyprus (tax residents)

Tax Free Refund Conditions in Cyprus

To be eligible for a Tax Free VAT refund in Cyprus, the following conditions must be met:

The minimum purchase amount in a single store must be at least €50

Goods must be for personal use only, not resale

Items must be exported within 3 months of purchase

You must request and complete a Tax Free Form at the time of purchase

The form must be properly filled, signed by the retailer, and include the receipt

Look for stores displaying the Tax Free Shopping logo. Many of them are located in major cities like:

Nicosia

Limassol

Larnaca

Paphos

Ayia Napa

How to Claim a VAT Refund in Cyprus — Step-by-Step

Step 1: Shop at Tax Free Stores

When shopping, make sure the store supports the Tax Free system. You’ll usually see a "Tax Free" sign at the entrance or near the register. Ask the cashier to provide a Tax Free Form, and don’t forget your passport – it’s required to issue the document.

Check that the form includes:

Your full name and passport number

Purchase date and amount

Store stamp and staff signature

The original receipt

Keep everything together in the envelope they give you.

Step 2: Get Customs Stamp at the Airport

Before leaving Cyprus, go to the Customs desk at the airport — typically located before security check-in. Present the following:

Completed Tax Free Form

Original receipts

Goods purchased (preferably in original packaging with tags)

Your passport

Flight tickets

Tip: Pack the items you plan to claim VAT on in your hand luggage or at the top of your suitcase, as you might need to show them.

Main departure airports:

Larnaca International Airport (LCA)

Paphos International Airport (PFO)

Step 3: Receive Your Refund

After getting the customs stamp, you can proceed to receive your refund:

Cash (available at airport refund counters)

Bank card transfer (refund processed after mailing the documents)

Keep in mind:

A handling fee is deducted from the total VAT

Cash refunds may incur an additional service charge

For mail-in refunds, place the stamped form and receipt in the envelope provided and drop it in the designated box

✈️ If you’re leaving Cyprus but exiting the EU from another airport, visit a Cypriot Customs office beforehand and get your Tax Free form stamped for export confirmation.

Pro Tips for Tax Free Shopping in Cyprus

Keep all receipts and forms until your refund is processed

Arrive at the airport early – the customs and refund process can take time

Confirm each store’s Tax Free policy – minimum amounts and refund percentages can vary

Ask questions – don’t hesitate to clarify refund details before completing a purchase

Save More While Exploring Cyprus

Claiming your Tax Free refund in Cyprus is a simple way to save extra cash during your vacation. Just follow the steps above and enjoy your shopping even more!

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