Singapore GST Refund: How Tourists Can Claim Tax Back

Planning to shop in Singapore? Many Filipino travelers don’t know that they can get a refund on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) they pay while shopping. With the right steps, you can save money and enjoy more pasalubong without overspending. Here’s a simple guide to help you.

✨ What is Singapore GST?

Singapore charges a 9% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on most goods and services. As a tourist, you don’t live in Singapore, so you can claim a refund on the GST you paid when you shop at participating stores. This refund is processed under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS).

🛒 Who Can Claim a GST Refund?

As a Filipino tourist, you’re eligible if you:

• Are not a Singapore citizen or permanent resident
• Stay in Singapore for less than 365 days in the past 24 months
• Bought goods from stores that participate in the Tax Refund scheme (look for the “Tax-Free” or “GST Refund” logo)
• Take the goods out of Singapore within 2 months from the date of purchase

💰 Minimum Spending Requirement

To qualify for a GST refund in Singapore, you need to meet the minimum purchase amount:

• At least SGD 100 (₱4,300+) in a single receipt, OR
• Combine receipts from the same store on the same day to reach a total of SGD 100.

👉 Important details to remember:

• The SGD 100 is before GST (the system calculates based on the purchase price before the 9% GST is added).
• Some shops allow you to combine multiple receipts, but they must be from the same outlet and on the same day.
• Certain items are excluded, like hotel stays, food, drinks, services, and consumables used in Singapore.

📝 Tip for Filipinos:

Always request an eTRS receipt (Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme receipt) when paying. The cashier will usually ask if you want one if your purchase qualifies, but it’s best to remind them. Without an eTRS record, you can’t process your refund at the airport.

📍 Example Situation:

• You buy a bag for SGD 80 at Takashimaya in Orchard Road.
• Later the same day, you buy a wallet for SGD 50 in the same store.
• Total spent: SGD 130 (before GST) → ✅ You qualify because you can combine both receipts.

🛒 What Items Are Eligible?

GST refunds apply only to goods you bring out of Singapore. Services, consumables, or anything used inside Singapore are not refundable.

✈️ How to Claim Your GST Refund at Changi Airport

1. Arrive Early

• Get to the airport at least 2–3 hours before your flight.
• If you’re checking in luggage with refundable goods inside (like a MacBook), go even earlier because you need validation before check-in.

2. Find the eTRS Kiosks

• For checked-in goods: Go to the eTRS kiosk before check-in counters (landside area).
• For hand-carry goods: Use the eTRS kiosks after immigration (airside area).

3. Scan Your Details

At the kiosk, you can retrieve your refund record in three ways:

• Scan your passport, OR
• Insert the credit card used for the purchase, OR
• Scan the eTRS receipt from the store.

The system will pull up your transactions automatically.

4. Customs Validation (if required)

• Sometimes the machine will ask you to present the goods.
• If that happens, go to the Customs Inspection counter nearby.
• Example: If you bought an iPhone, keep the box unopened and ready to show. Don’t pack it deep in your luggage.

5. Choose Refund Method

• Credit card refund: credited within ~10 days.
• Alipay / WeChat Pay: faster, usually within 5 days.
• Cash refund: available at the GST Cash Refund Counter inside the transit area (after immigration).

6. Final Check

• After approval, you must depart within 12 hours; otherwise, the refund won’t be valid.
• Keep your receipts until you actually receive the money, in case Customs does a random check.

✅ Wrapping Up Your Singapore Shopping Experience

For Filipinos who love shopping abroad, the Singapore GST refund is a great way to save money. Just remember the minimum spending, eligible stores, and claiming steps at the airport. With a bit of planning, you’ll leave Singapore with both great purchases and some extra pesos back in your wallet.

📌 Extra Tips for Filipinos

• Bring your passport when shopping – some stores require it for the eTRS receipt.
• Electronics should be hand-carried – keep them accessible in case Customs wants to see them.
• Refund in PHP varies – final amount depends on the exchange rate and admin fee (~1–2%).
• Avoid last-minute queues – set aside 30–45 minutes at Changi just for the refund.
• Keep your receipts – Customs may ask for them even after kiosk validation.