TL;DR: the rules on tourists reclaiming VAT in the UK have changed in recent years, and as far as we know the visitor refund scheme for goods bought in Great Britain was withdrawn some time ago. Because tax rules change, we cannot promise any refund, and we are jewellers, not tax advisers. Most of our international customers never visit and have their ring delivered, which is a different tax position. Please check the current rules before you plan around a refund. Pieces start from £600.
What tourist refunds were
A tourist refund scheme lets visitors from abroad claim back sales tax on goods they buy and take home. Several countries run one. The details differ, covering which visitors qualify, which shops take part, how goods must be shown at departure and how the money is returned. They are a matter of national tax policy, not shop choice.
Why we are cautious
Rules for visitor refunds have changed in the UK, and we do not want to give you a promise that may be out of date. Whether you can reclaim tax on a ring depends on the rules in force when you buy and when you leave, and on conditions we cannot assess for you. Please check the current guidance from the UK tax authority before you plan.
If the ring is delivered abroad
When we send a ring directly to a customer outside the UK, the position on UK VAT is different from a purchase carried away by a visitor, and we set out the total you will pay for your design in writing. The customer pays import duty and tax in their own country, which differ by country. Our guide to ten questions international customers ask covers the wider process.
Questions to ask before you rely on a refund
- Is there a scheme in force on the date you buy and the date you leave?
- Do you qualify as a visitor under its rules?
- What must be shown at departure, and when?
- Is the ring being posted or carried, and does that change the answer?
- What will you pay on arrival in your own country?
If you cannot answer these confidently from official guidance, plan without a refund and treat any saving as a bonus.
If you will be in the UK
If you plan to visit and collect the ring in person, tell us early. We will explain what we can arrange. You should also check the rules for declaring the ring and paying any duty when you arrive home. Our guide to ordering for a partner in another country covers other options.
Budgeting sensibly
The safest approach is not to assume a refund when you plan your budget. If a refund turns out to be available, that is a bonus. Ask us for the total price in writing, and keep your invoice for any customs or tax query. Our guide to reading your invoice and certificate explains what each document shows.
Timing
Standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, varying with your location and how busy we are, and nothing is made until you approve the design in writing.
Frequently asked questions
Can tourists reclaim VAT on a ring bought in the UK?
As far as we know the visitor scheme for Great Britain has been withdrawn, but rules change, so check current guidance.
Is VAT different if the ring is shipped abroad?
The position differs from a UK purchase, and we set out the total in writing for your design.
Who pays import duty?
The customer pays import duty and tax in their own country.
Do you give tax advice?
No. We are jewellers, so please check with a qualified adviser.