Originally Posted by
JeffD
Can someone explain to me the VAT refund process at CDG? We are flying CDG/PHL on US tomorrow. My previous experience with this process in other countries is that you handle this procedure after you check-in and pass security so you have to carry on your purchases. However, they rarely look at them (in TLV they didn't even look at all).
However, I have read some information where it indicates that you present your purchases to customs at CDG before you check in for your flight? Is this correct? Do they look at the stuff or can I pack it without having to worry about pulling it out of our bags so long as I have the refund forms and receipts?
Thanks.
In my experience, the customs officers in charge of Détaxe (pronounced "day tax") are unpredictable in what they do. It's guaranteed that your paperwork has to be in order. They may ask to see some or all of your purchases. In my case I have been lucky that they have never asked me to open any of them but I would guess they are very familiar with how wrapped packages from stores like Hermès or Vuitton look.
I would suggest you tell the store where you make the purchase that you want the VAT refund credited to your credit card as opposed to a check being sent to you.