💵 How to get a Tax Free refund for purchases in Norway: step-by-step instructions and useful tips

Norway is an expensive country, and many tourists look for ways to save money during their trip. One of the most pleasant ways to reduce expenses is to apply for a tax refund (Tax Free) on purchases. This service allows you to get back some of the money you spent on goods in Norwegian shops, provided that you are a tourist from a non-EU country. In this article, we will explain in detail how to get Tax Free, which purchases are eligible for a refund, provide step-by-step instructions, and useful tips to make the tax refund process as easy as possible. Useful links to blog sections: ‘Souvenirs, shopping, Tax Free’, ‘Budget life hacks’, ‘Prices and costs’.

❓10 FAQs about Tax Free refunds in Norway

1. Who can apply for a tax refund (Tax Free) in Norway?

Tourists who live outside the European Union and Norway can apply for a tax refund. To receive a Tax Free refund, you must have your passport with you and make a purchase of at least NOK 315 in one store. EU citizens and permanent residents of Norway are not eligible for this refund system. Before travelling, it is recommended to check the current conditions on the official websites of Global Blue or Planet Tax Free.

2. What items are eligible for Tax Free?

Almost any goods purchased for personal use are eligible for a tax refund: clothing, footwear, electronics, souvenirs, watches, jewellery and other durable goods. It is important that the goods are new, have not been used during the trip and are taken out of the country within three months of purchase. Tax refunds do not apply to services, accommodation, food, alcohol and tobacco.

3. How do I get a Tax Free form when making a purchase?

To get a tax refund, you must ask the seller to fill out a Tax Free Form at the time of purchase. The seller will fill out a special form with your details, a list of purchases and the refund amount. You will need to present your passport to fill out the form correctly. Always check that the form has been filled out correctly to avoid any problems when claiming your tax refund at the border.

4. Where and how do I claim my Tax Free refund?

The tax refund is processed directly upon departure from Norway, usually at the airport or at the border. You will need to present the goods in their original packaging, receipts, completed Tax Free form and passport to customs officials. Once the export of the goods has been confirmed, you will receive a special stamp on the form, after which you can collect your money at the Global Blue or Planet Tax Free desk or have it transferred to your bank card at a later date.

5. Can I get a Tax Free refund in Norwegian cities?

Cash refunds are most often made at airports, but there are also Tax Free refund offices in major cities (Oslo, Bergen). However, even if you receive your money in the city, you still need to have the customs stamp on the form when you leave the country and send it back to the operator. If you forget to get the stamp, the money will be deducted from your card.

6. How much money can I get back with Tax Free?

The amount you get back depends on the type of goods and the shop. On average, tourists can get back around 10–15% of the purchase price. The exact amount depends on the VAT rate for the specific goods. The maximum refund amounts are usually for expensive purchases, such as electronics, watches and jewellery.

7. Can I get a tax refund after leaving the country?

No, it is not possible to get a tax refund after leaving the country. If you forget to get a stamp at customs, your form will be considered invalid. That is why it is important to carefully check all documents, stamps and receipts directly at the border before departure.

8. Can I get Tax Free when travelling by car?

Yes, if you are leaving Norway by car, you can get a tax refund at the border. Border crossings between Norway and neighbouring countries (e.g. Sweden or Finland) have Tax Free offices where you can get a customs stamp and claim your tax refund in cash or on your bank card.

9. What should you do if your flight departs at night or the Tax Free counter is closed?

If your flight is at night when the tax refund counter is closed, you should still get the customs officer to stamp your form. Then send the stamped Tax Free forms by post to Global Blue or Planet Tax Free. Once they get the forms, they'll transfer the money to your bank card within a few weeks.

10. How to avoid problems when claiming a tax refund?

To avoid any problems, always check that you have filled in the Tax Free form correctly and keep the original receipts and packaging. Make sure you get the customs stamp on the form when you leave the country. It is also useful to check the opening hours of the Tax Free offices at the airport or border in advance so that you have enough time to claim your refund.

Tax refunds (Tax Free) in Norway are a great way to reduce your expenses and get some of your money back. By following our tips and instructions, you can easily get your tax refund and make your trip to Norway even more profitable and enjoyable!