Last reviewed: · Prices in Turkish Lira (₺ TRY) and Euros (€ EUR) are approximate and for orientation only.
How Türkiye's Tax-Free (KDV) Refund Works
Non-resident travelers visiting Türkiye can claim a Value Added Tax (KDV) refund on eligible retail purchases taken out of the country within 3 months in personal luggage. Look for Global Blue, Planet, or official Tax-Free Point signage in Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Bodrum, and İzmir.
2026 VAT (KDV) Rates & Minimum Spend
Textiles, clothing, leather goods, and carpets carry a 10% VAT rate, while electronics, watches, eyewear, and cosmetics carry a 20% VAT rate. After intermediary processing fees, your net cash or card refund is typically 5.5% to 12.5% of the retail purchase price. Use our Turkish Lira (₺) & VAT Refund Calculator to estimate your exact refund.
Step-by-Step Airport Customs Validation
Present your passport, Tax-Free e-invoice (Tax-Free Fatura), boarding pass, and unused items at the Gümrük Vergi İade (Customs Tax Refund) desk at Istanbul Airport (IST), Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), or Antalya Airport (AYT) before checking your bags, then collect your refund in Euros (€), USD ($), or directly back to your Visa/Mastercard airside.
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim a VAT refund on Turkish carpets and kilims?
Yes — handmade carpets and kilims bought from registered Tax-Free merchants qualify for the 10% KDV category. Always keep the official e-invoice and certificate of origin.
Do I validate Tax-Free forms before or after bag drop?
Always visit the Customs Tax-Free desk BEFORE checking in luggage if your purchased items are packed inside your checked suitcase, as officers inspect the goods.
Official sources & further reading
Rules, prices and schedules change. Confirm details here before you travel: