A VAT refund guide to France
Which countries have reciprocity with France?
Learn more about how reciprocity works within VAT by clicking below.
What expenses are claimable in France?
Entertainment
Events
Travel Related
General Expenses
Additional Information
| Current VAT Rate | 20% |
| Categories | Entertainment, Events, Travel Related, General expenses |
| VAT in local language | Taxe sur la valeur ajoutée (TVA) |
| VAT number format | FR 12345678901 (FR followed by 11 number digits) |
| Exemptions | Accommodation, Food, drink and restaurant services, Hiring of means of transport, Taxis, Public transport |
| Key Deadlines | 30th September (8th directive) and 30th June (13th directive) |
| Threshold |
Non-simplified – More than EUR 150 (including VAT) Simplified –EUR 150 or less (including VAT) Super simplified – Not applicable to this VAT scheme |
| Electronic Invoicing | Currently, electronic invoicing is only mandated for B2G transactions. However, the government plans on implementing B2B invoicing in September 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the VAT implications for international events held in France?
International events may incur local VAT in France on venue hire, accommodation, and supplier costs. Foreign businesses can apply for a VAT refund in France, provided proper invoices and documentation are submitted. Use a VAT refund calculator to estimate recoverable amounts.
2. What VAT refund opportunities exist for foreign businesses in the tourism sector in France?
Foreign businesses in the tourism sector may recover VAT on eligible expenses such as accommodation, transport, and event-related services through a VAT reclaim in France. Claims must be supported by compliant invoices and proper documentation. A VAT refund calculator can help estimate recoverable amounts.
3. What is the deadline for claiming a VAT refund in France?
Foreign businesses have until June 30 of the following year to submit a VAT refund claim in France under the 8th or 13th Directive. Late submissions are not accepted. Using a VAT refund calculator can help estimate reclaimable amounts.
4. Which expenses are eligible for a VAT refund in France?
Recoverable expenses include fuel, trade shows, food, drink & restaurant services, office supplies and professional services, all subject to VAT in France. Accurate records support a smooth VAT refund process in France.
Explore VAT reclaim opportunities in
Nearby Countries
Spain
Germany
Netherlands
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