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Singapore visitor GST (Sales Tax) Refund

Global RefundAs a visitor to Singapore, you are entitled to claim back the Goods and Services Tax (GST) paid on your purchases when you take them home. A 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is levied on most goods and services.  The GST rate in Singapore is 5%. 

Enjoy the ultimate shopping experience and indulge in irresistible bargains and great buys. Another plus is the over 3,000 affiliated retailers which you can shop tax free. Shop where you see the Refund Tax Free shopping sign. However, if more than SGD100 was spent with Premier Tax Free ($300 with Global Refund)] , visitors can apply for a refund of the GST paid. 

There are 2 GST refund operators, Global Refund and Premier Tax Free.

Global Refund - Shop at Global Refund affiliated retailers displaying the 'TAX FREE SHOPPING' signs.  Spend S$100 at any affiliated retailers.  Obtain a Global Refund Cheque from the retailer.

Premier Tax Free - Spend in participating stores carrying the 'Premier Tax Free' logo.  Spend S$100 at any affiliated retailers.  Obtain a Premier Tax Free Refund Voucher from the retailer.

How do you qualify for an immediate GST Cash Refund?

You must:

  • not be a Singapore Citizen or a Permanent Resident of Singapore
  • not excercise employment in Singapore at any time during the past six months.
  • depart Singapore by air through Singapore Changi Airport or Seletar Airport, and are not a member of the cabin or flight crew.
  • spend less than 365 days in Singapore in the two years before the date of purchase.
  • spend an accumulated SGD100 at Premier Tax Free ($300 with Global Refund) affiliated retailers.
  • take the purchases out of Singapore within 2 months from the date of purchase.

3 easy steps to claiming your GST cash refund

  1. SHOPPING - Shop where you see the any Tax Free Shopping sign. Simply ask for your Refund cheque when you spend a minimum of SGD100.  You must spend at least SGD100 to qualify for a GST refund.
  2. AUTHORISING - Show your purchases, receipts, and passport to the Customs at Changi Airport and have your Refund cheques stamped.  For items to be checked-in, obtain the Customs stamp before checking in the items.
  3. REFUNDING - Collect your GST refund in cash, cheque, direct credit to your credit card, or the Airport Shopping Voucher (with additional 10% in value) at the Refund counter near the Customs counter at Changi Airport Terminal 1 or 2.

Updated On: 15.02.13