If you're planning a shopping trip to Cambodia, here’s something I wish I had known earlier — you can actually get a tax refund on your purchases in Cambodia! 🛍️💸
I recently returned from an amazing trip to Phnom Penh and Siem Reap (yes, the temples were breathtaking 😍), and along the way, I did a lot of shopping — silk scarves, silver jewelry, handmade souvenirs, even a few luxury items. What surprised me most? I got part of the tax I paid refunded at the airport before flying home. 🙌
It’s one of those travel hacks that many tourists don’t know about — but it can save you a good chunk of money, especially if you’re spending on gifts or fashion. And yes, the process is actually pretty simple.
🎯 Whether you’re heading to Angkor Wat or exploring the buzzing night markets in Phnom Penh, don’t miss out on this easy way to save!
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In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Cambodia’s VAT refund for tourists — who qualifies, how much you can claim, and the exact steps I followed to get my refund smoothly at the airport. Ready to shop smarter and get your money back? Let’s go! 🧳🧾
🧐 What is a Tax Refund in Cambodia?
According to Cambodia’s General Department of Taxation, tourists who shop in Cambodia pay a 10% VAT (Value Added Tax) on goods.
As a non-Cambodian tourist, you’re eligible to reclaim some of this tax when you shop at authorized retailers and claim it at the airport before flying out. It’s like cashback on your shopping spree!
💰 How Much is VAT in Cambodia?
VAT in Cambodia is 10%, which is significant enough that it’s worth applying for a refund, especially on larger purchases.
🔙 How Much Can I Get Back?
You can typically get back up to 8.5% of the purchase value after processing fees. I spent about RM2,000 on local silk products and jewelry — and received a refund of nearly RM160. 🥳
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👤 Am I Eligible for a Tax Refund?
Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
Nationality | Non-Cambodian (yes, Malaysians qualify!) |
Stay Duration | Less than 60 days in Cambodia |
Minimum Purchase | KHR 200,000 (~RM230) per receipt at a participating store |
Refund Deadline | Must leave Cambodia within 3 months of purchase |
Item Condition | Items must be new, unused, and taken out of Cambodia |
🛍️ How Do Tax Refunds Work in Cambodia?
Just shop at VAT-refund-participating stores, keep your receipts and forms, and make your claim at the airport.
Look for shops showing the “VAT Refund for Tourists” sign. Once you spend over KHR 200,000 (~RM230) in a day at a store, ask for the tax refund form.
Refunds are processed at Phnom Penh International Airport and Siem Reap International Airport.
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KUL16:401j 50mTanpa hentiPNH17:30Kuala Lumpur - Phnom Penh|Kha, 1 Jan|Malaysia AirlinesPNH18:302jTanpa hentiKUL21:30Phnom Penh - Kuala Lumpur|Isn, 5 Jan|Malaysia AirlinesRM 410RM 56127% off27% offRM 561RM 410 
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PNH1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiKUL2:00 PMPhnom Penh - Kuala Lumpur|Thu, Jan 8|Malaysia AirlinesCari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
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💸 Types of Tax Refunds in Cambodia
1. Airport Tax Refund
- Present your passport, boarding pass, and tax refund form
- Items must be unused and available for inspection
- Claim your refund before check-in
- Refund is issued in US Dollars (USD) or to your credit card
2. Downtown Tax Refund Offices (Limited)
- Some central areas in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap may offer refund services
- Refunds here are typically processed via credit card
📝 Note: Cambodia doesn’t offer instant in-store refunds like some other countries.
📊 Summary Table
Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
VAT Rate in Cambodia | 10% on most goods |
Refund Amount | Up to 8.5% (after fees) |
Minimum Spend | KHR 200,000 per receipt |
Refund Locations | Airport counters (Phnom Penh, Siem Reap) |
Eligible Stores | Look for “VAT Refund for Tourists” signs |
Refund Method | USD cash or credit card |
🧭 How Do I Get a Tax Refund in Cambodia?
✅ Step 1: Shop at Participating Stores
Look for the "VAT Refund for Tourists" sign. Popular places include AEON Mall, Angkor Night Market, and Central Market.
✅ Step 2: Show Your Passport at Checkout
Ask for a tax refund form when you pay. Your passport will be needed.
✅ Step 3: Keep All Receipts & Items
Don't open or use the goods. Keep them in their original packaging until your refund is processed.
✅ Step 4: Arrive Early at the Airport
Arrive 3 hours before your flight. The refund process can take some time, especially during busy travel seasons.
✅ Step 5: Visit the VAT Refund Counter
Before checking in, go to the VAT refund counter and present:
- Your passport
- Boarding pass
- Receipts & refund form
- Unused purchased items
After inspection, your refund will be processed in USD or via credit card. 💳
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💡 Tips for Tax Refunds in Cambodia
- 📷 Take photos of your receipts in case you misplace them
- 🧴 Keep items unopened for airport inspection
- 🛒 Shop at larger stores for easier paperwork
- 💳 Choose credit card refund for large amounts
- 📅 Refund must be claimed within 3 months
- 🧾 Keep your tax refund forms safe and organized
🧳 Final Thoughts on Tax Refunds in Cambodia
After trying it myself, I can say the Cambodia tax refund system is a great perk for tourists! Whether you're buying silk scarves, gemstone jewelry, or local crafts, that VAT refund adds up — and can even cover your airport lunch or duty-free splurge. 🎁🧳
As a savvy Malaysian traveler, I found the process to be surprisingly smooth — just plan ahead and keep your paperwork handy.
Planning your next Cambodian adventure? Don’t forget to:
👉 Book your flight to Cambodia on Trip.com ✈️
👉 Find top-rated hotels near Angkor Wat or in Phnom Penh 🏨
👉 Buy your Cambodia travel SIM to stay online 📱
👉 Get Trip.com Exclusive Offers
👉Download the Trip.com App Now!
Chomreabsuor (goodbye), and happy shopping! ✈️🛍️
🙋♀️ FAQs: Cambodia Tax Refund for Tourists
🧾 1. What is a tax refund in Cambodia?
A tax refund in Cambodia allows foreign tourists to reclaim part of the 10% VAT (Value Added Tax) they paid on goods purchased from eligible stores. It’s a great way to save money when shopping during your trip!💼 2. Who is eligible for a tax refund in Cambodia?
To qualify for a refund, you must: Be a non-Cambodian national (Malaysians qualify! 🇲🇾) Stay in Cambodia for less than 60 days Spend KHR 200,000 (~RM230) or more in a single purchase at a VAT refund-participating store Take the purchased items out of Cambodia within 3 months Keep the items unused until your refund is processed at the airport🛍️ 3. Where can I shop to qualify for a tax refund?
Look for stores that display the “VAT Refund for Tourists” sign. These are typically found in: Major malls like AEON Mall Phnom Penh Tourist markets in Siem Reap High-end boutiques, souvenir shops, and specialty silk or jewelry stores📍 4. Where can I claim my tax refund?
You can claim your VAT refund at: Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH) Siem Reap International Airport (REP) There are VAT Refund Counters located before immigration, so be sure to get there early!💳 5. How will I receive the refund?
Refunds are issued either: In cash (USD) Or credited to your credit card Tip: For larger purchases, credit card refunds are usually smoother and more secure. 💳🕒 6. How early should I arrive at the airport for a refund?
It’s recommended to arrive at least 3 hours before your flight, especially during busy travel periods. The refund process can take 20–30 minutes depending on queues and inspection time.📦 7. Do I need to show the items I bought?
Yes! You must show the unused, unopened items along with: Original receipts Tax refund form Passport Boarding pass The items may be inspected at the counter, so keep them accessible in your carry-on.📆 8. How long after purchase can I claim the refund?
You must claim the refund within 3 months of the purchase date. Any later, and it’s no longer valid — so don’t delay!🧾 9. Can I combine multiple receipts to reach the minimum amount?
No — each receipt must show a minimum of KHR 200,000 (~RM230) at a single store on the same day. You can’t combine receipts across multiple days or different shops.⚠️ 10. Are all goods eligible for VAT refund?
Most new, tangible goods are eligible (e.g., clothes, accessories, handicrafts, jewelry). However, services, food, and consumables like cosmetics or snacks typically don’t qualify.