VAT Refund Calculator: Calculate Your Tax Recovery from 17 Countries

About This VAT Refund Calculator

Accuracy & Updates

This free VAT calculator provides estimates based on current VAT rates for 17 countries. Rates are updated regularly, but may have changed since our last review. For US businesses seeking VAT recovery, we recommend verifying rates with official sources or consulting with our specialists.

Important: Not all countries refund VAT to every nation. Some apply reciprocity rules—they only refund to travelers from countries that also offer VAT refunds to their citizens.

Legal Notice

Recover 15-25% VAT on International Business Travel

If your US-based company sends employees to the UK, EU, Japan, or South Korea, you could be leaving thousands of dollars in tax refunds on the table. Most American businesses don't realize they can recover VAT (Value Added Tax) on legitimate business expenses.

Are You Eligible for VAT Recovery?

You may qualify to recover VAT if:

  • ✓ Your business is based in the US (or another non-EU country)
  • ✓ You have business travel expenses in VAT-charging countries
  • ✓ You have valid receipts/invoices showing VAT charges
  • ✓ Expenses are business-related: hotels, meals, transport, conference fees, business services

Use the calculator on the left to estimate your potential refund.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Select the country where you incurred expenses
  2. Enter your expense amounts by category (hotels, meals, transport, etc.)
  3. Get instant results showing your potential VAT refund

Available for 17 countries:

European Union VAT Calculators:

  • Austria VAT calculator
  • Belgium VAT calculator
  • Denmark VAT calculator
  • Finland VAT calculator
  • France VAT calculator
  • Germany VAT calculator
  • Ireland VAT calculator
  • Italy VAT calculator
  • Luxembourg VAT calculator
  • Netherlands VAT calculator
  • Spain VAT calculator
  • Sweden VAT calculator

Europe (Non-EU) VAT Calculators:

  • Iceland VAT calculator
  • Switzerland VAT calculator
  • UK VAT calculator

Asia VAT Calculators:

  • Japan VAT calculator
  • South Korea VAT calculator

Each country has different rates for hotels, meals, transport, and business services. Our calculator automatically applies the correct rate based on your expense category.

Why Coromandel SAS?

VAT recovery involves complex paperwork, country-specific deadlines, and strict documentation requirements. With 30+ years of experience, we handle the entire process—from eligibility assessment to claim submission and refund delivery.

Learn more about our VAT recovery services →

Understanding VAT Recovery for US Businesses

What is VAT Reclaim?

Value Added Tax (VAT) reclaim—also called VAT recovery or VAT refund—is the process through which US businesses can recover taxes paid on eligible expenses incurred during international business travel. For American companies with employees traveling to Europe, Asia, or other VAT-charging regions, this represents a significant opportunity to reduce operational costs.

Read our complete guide: VAT Recovery for US Businesses to understand eligibility, deadlines, and the recovery process.

For example, if a US company sends representatives to the UK, Germany, or France, their business expenses (hotels, meals, transport) may be eligible for VAT refunds ranging from 15-25% of the total expense amount. Use our VAT refund calculator above to estimate your potential recovery.

Learn more: VAT Reclaim vs VAT Recovery vs VAT Refund explained

Which Countries Allow VAT Recovery for US Companies?

Our calculator supports VAT refund calculations for 17 countries where US businesses commonly incur travel expenses:

  • European Union: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden
  • Europe (Non-EU): Iceland, Switzerland, United Kingdom
  • Asia: Japan, South Korea

Each country has different VAT rates by expense category. For example, hotel VAT in Germany is 7%, while in France it's 10%. Our calculator uses current rates for accurate refund estimates.

Country-Specific VAT Considerations

  • VAT reclaim eligibility varies by country and business status
  • Some countries have specific documentation requirements
  • Special economic zones may have different rates
  • Regional variations may apply within countries

Reclaim Process for Value Added Taxes (VAT) Paid in Other Countries

  • Original invoices are typically required for VAT reclaim
  • Time limits apply for submitting reclaim requests
  • Some expenses may be partially or fully ineligible
  • Additional documentation may be required

Next Steps for US Businesses

While this VAT refund calculator provides an estimate of your potential refund value, the actual VAT recovery process requires expert handling. Learn more about VAT refunds on business travel expenses and which categories are eligible for recovery.

Contact Coromandel SAS for a detailed assessment of your specific situation and to learn how we can help maximize your international tax recovery. Learn more about our VAT recovery services.

Calculator last reviewed: August, 2025, by Mano Chandra Dhas

50+ Years of Expertise

Led by Mano Chandra Dhas, with over 50 years in commercial air travel and business management. Pioneered VAT recovery operations and served major multinationals including ABB, BP, Microsoft, Shell, and Siemens.

Comprehensive Service

We handle the entire VAT refund process from eligibility assessment to claim submission and refund delivery. Our team ensures maximum eligible recovery while you focus on your business.

Global Coverage

Operating since 2013, we process VAT reclaims across 17 countries including the EU, UK, Japan, and South Korea. Expertise spanning Middle East, South America, and international markets.

Frequently Asked Questions About VAT Recovery

How does a VAT refund calculator work?

A VAT refund calculator estimates how much Value Added Tax your business can recover from international expenses. You select the country where expenses were incurred, enter amounts by category (hotels, meals, transport), and the calculator applies that country's VAT rates to estimate your potential refund. Our calculator covers 17 countries including the UK, EU nations, Japan, and South Korea.

Can US companies claim VAT refunds from the UK and EU?

Yes! US businesses can claim VAT refunds from the UK, most EU countries, and several other nations. The United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, and other European countries allow foreign businesses to recover VAT on legitimate business expenses. However, each country has specific eligibility requirements, documentation standards, and submission deadlines (typically 6-12 months after the expense date).

How much VAT can my US business recover?

Most US businesses can recover 15-25% of eligible international expenses through VAT refunds. The exact percentage depends on the country and expense type. For example, UK hotel VAT is 20%, German restaurant VAT is 19%, and Japanese accommodation tax is 10%. Use our free VAT calculator above to get a country-specific estimate for your business travel expenses.

Which VAT calculator is most accurate for US businesses?

The most accurate VAT calculators use current, country-specific VAT rates for different expense categories. Our calculator is regularly updated with official rates from 17 countries and designed specifically for US businesses with international travel expenses. For the most precise estimates, ensure you're using a calculator that breaks down rates by category (hotels, meals, transport) rather than applying a single generic rate.

What is the deadline to file a VAT refund claim?

Most countries require VAT refund claims within 6-12 months from the date of expense. For example, the UK requires claims within 6 months of the end of the tax year, while EU countries typically allow 6-12 months. Missing these deadlines means forfeiting your refund permanently. Contact our VAT recovery specialists to ensure you meet all country-specific deadlines.

What is VAT and why can businesses reclaim it?

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a consumption tax applied to goods and services in many countries. Businesses can often reclaim VAT paid on business-related expenses in foreign countries, as they are not the final consumer. This represents a significant cost-saving opportunity for companies with international operations.

Which countries are included in this VAT calculator?

Our calculator covers major VAT-refunding countries including all EU member states (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Spain, Sweden), the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Iceland, Japan, and South Korea. Each country has different VAT rates and eligibility criteria. Please be sure to note them carefully.

What types of business expenses are eligible for VAT recovery?

Common eligible expenses include accommodation costs, business meals, transportation (taxis, trains, flights), conference fees, and business services. However, eligibility varies by country and specific circumstances. Personal expenses and certain categories may be excluded or partially eligible.

How accurate are the calculations from this calculator?

This calculator provides estimates based on current VAT rates and general eligibility criteria. However, actual recovery amounts depend on specific documentation, timing requirements, and country-specific rules. The calculator is designed to give you a realistic expectation of potential savings.

What documentation is required for VAT recovery?

Typically, you'll need original invoices showing VAT amounts, proof of business purpose, and company registration documents. Requirements vary by country and may include additional forms or certifications. Proper documentation is crucial for successful recovery.

How long does the VAT recovery process take?

Processing times vary by country, typically ranging from 3-12 months. Some countries have strict submission deadlines (often 6-12 months after the expense), so timely filing is essential. Working with experienced professionals like Coromandel SAS can help expedite the process.

Can small businesses and startups recover VAT?

Yes, businesses of all sizes can potentially recover VAT, though requirements may vary. Some countries have minimum claim thresholds, and the business must be properly registered and operating for business purposes. Even small amounts can add up over time.

Why should I use Coromandel SAS for VAT recovery?

With over 30 years of experience in corporate travel and VAT recovery, Coromandel SAS has the expertise to navigate complex international tax regulations. We handle the entire process from documentation to submission, ensuring maximum eligible recovery while maintaining compliance. Read more about Coromandel SAS.

Is this calculator free to use?

Yes, this VAT calculator is completely free to use. It's provided by Coromandel SAS as a service to help businesses understand their potential VAT recovery opportunities. There are no hidden costs or registration requirements to use the calculator.

What if my business is not eligible for VAT recovery?

Eligibility depends on various factors including your business structure, the nature of expenses, and the countries involved. Even if you're not eligible now, understanding the process can help with future planning. Contact us for a detailed assessment of your specific situation.

How often should I check for VAT recovery opportunities?

It's recommended to review VAT recovery opportunities quarterly or after significant international business travel. Many countries have strict deadlines for submission, so regular monitoring ensures you don't miss potential recovery opportunities.

Can I recover VAT on expenses from previous years?

Most countries have strict time limits for VAT recovery claims, typically 6-12 months from the date of expense. However, some countries may allow longer periods under certain circumstances. It's best to consult with VAT recovery specialists for specific guidance.

Still Have Questions?

Our VAT recovery experts are here to help. Contact us for personalised guidance on your specific VAT recovery situation.