Learn how international tourists can claim a VAT refund in Sri Lanka. Step-by-step guide to eligibility, receipts, shopping tips, and airport process.
✈️ What Is the Tourist VAT Refund Scheme (TVRS) in Sri Lanka?
If you’re a tourist visiting Sri Lanka, you could be eligible to claim a refund of the VAT (Value Added Tax) you paid while shopping. The Tourist VAT Refund Scheme (TVRS) was launched by the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) of Sri Lanka to make shopping more attractive for international visitors.
This blog will guide you through the eligibility criteria, how it works, and how to make the claim at the airport — and help you avoid missing out on your refund.
✅ Who Is Eligible for a VAT Refund in Sri Lanka?
To claim a VAT refund, you must meet these conditions:
- ✅ You are a non-citizen and non-resident of Sri Lanka
- ✅ You are visiting on a valid tourist visa
- ✅ You are over 18 years old
- ✅ Your stay in Sri Lanka is less than 90 days
- ✅ You made purchases totaling LKR 50,000 or more (excluding VAT)
- ✅ You shopped at authorized VAT-registered retailers
🛍️ What Kind of Goods Are Eligible?
You can claim VAT back on standard-rated goods like:
- Clothing & fashion items
- Jewelry & gemstones
- Tea & packaged goods
- Electronics
- Handicrafts & souvenirs
🚫 You cannot claim VAT on:
- Food and beverages
- Hotel bills and services
- Online purchases
- Items not carried out of the country
- Consumed or opened goods
- Prohibited export items (as per Sri Lanka Customs)
🛒 Where Can You Shop?
Look for shops displaying the TVRS logo — these are authorized retailers. Some popular stores include:
- Odel Colombo
- Barefoot
- Laksala
- Mlesna Tea Centres
- Romafour Electronics
- Jewelry stores in Galle Fort & Colombo
👉 View full store list at: www.SriLankaVATRefund.com/stores
📝 What Invoices Do You Need?
Make sure to collect:
- ✅ Original commercial invoices (up to 3 from the same store per day)
- ✅ A Tourist VAT Refund Invoice (TVRI) – request this at the counter
- ✅ Your passport (must be shown when claiming refund)
📦 How to Claim the Refund at the Airport
- Visit the TVRS counter at Bandaranaike International Airport (Departure Area)
- Present your TVRI + original invoices + passport
- Be ready for physical inspection of the goods
- Submit the TVRS application form
- Get your refund processed (usually issued via cash or card credit)
⏰ Tip: Arrive at least 2–3 hours early to avoid missing your refund opportunity.
💡 Smart Tip: Use a VAT Refund Assistant
Don’t want the hassle? At SriLankaVATRefund.com, we offer:
| Service | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Service Plan | USD 5 | Email guide + eligibility checklist |
| Full Support Plan | USD 10 | WhatsApp assistance + store guidance + refund help at airport |
🔢 Estimate Your Refund – Use Our Free Calculator
Enter your total shopping amount and see how much VAT you can claim back at 18%.
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