Indonesia Tax Refund Guide – Claim VAT as a Tourist
If you're planning a trip to Indonesia and love shopping as much as I do, then listen up — because this travel tip will help you stretch your Ringgit even further! 💸 As a Malaysian traveler, I was excited to find out that Indonesia offers tax refunds for tourists on eligible purchases. From stylish batik and artisanal crafts to electronics and fashion, you can actually claim back some of the tax you paid — and the process is easier than you think.
Whether you're heading to Jakarta, Bali, or Yogyakarta, knowing how Indonesia's VAT refund system works can save you a good chunk of money. 👜🎨📱
✨ Ready to shop smart in Indonesia?
👉 Book your flight to Indonesia now on Trip.com
👉 Check hotel deals in Bali here
In this post, I’ll share everything you need to know about tax refunds in Indonesia — how it works, how much you can get back, who qualifies, and a step-by-step guide based on my own travel experience. Let's make sure you don’t miss out on the savings! 🛫💼
🧐 What is a Tax Refund in Indonesia?
source from https://www.vecteezy.com/
According to the Indonesian Directorate General of Taxes, tourists who shop in Indonesia pay VAT (Value Added Tax), which is typically 11%.
As a non-Indonesian tourist, you’re eligible to get a portion of this VAT refunded, either at the airport before departing or through designated refund counters. It's like getting cashback just for shopping!
💰 How Much is VAT in Indonesia?
VAT is 11% — quite high compared to some countries. So, yes, it’s definitely worth applying for a refund.
🔙 How Much Can I Get Back?
Typically, you’ll get up to 10% of the purchase price back (after fees). I spent around RM2,200 on shopping in Jakarta and Bali — and got back nearly RM170. 🎉
Cheap Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Bali
- Sehala
- Pergi Balik
- direct cheapest
KUL18:353j 10mTanpa hentiDPS21:45Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Sel, 25 Ogo|AirAsiaUS$ 91US$ 13533% offCari33% offUS$ 135US$ 91 
KUL17:553j 10mTanpa hentiDPS21:05Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Sel, 25 Ogo|Batik Air MalaysiaUS$ 96US$ 13528% offCari28% offUS$ 135US$ 96- KUL18:353j 10mTanpa hentiDPS21:45Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Rab, 26 Ogo|AirAsiaUS$ 107US$ 13521% offCari21% offUS$ 135US$ 107
- KUL17:503j 10mTanpa hentiDPS21:00Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Ahd, 23 Ogo|Batik Air MalaysiaUS$ 110CariUS$ 110
- KUL17:503j 10mTanpa hentiDPS21:00Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Isn, 24 Ogo|Batik Air MalaysiaUS$ 111CariUS$ 111
- KUL17:503j 10mTanpa hentiDPS21:00Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Rab, 26 Ogo|Batik Air MalaysiaUS$ 112CariUS$ 112
KUL13:003j 10mTanpa hentiDPS14:00Kuala Lumpur - Bali|Mon, Sep 6|Normal AirlineCari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
👤 Am I Eligible for a Tax Refund?
Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
Nationality | Non-Indonesian (yes, Malaysians qualify!) |
Stay Duration | Less than 60 days in Indonesia |
Minimum Purchase | IDR 500,000 (~RM150) per receipt at one store |
Refund Deadline | Must leave Indonesia within 1 month of purchase |
Item Condition | Items must be new and unused at time of refund |
🛍️ How Do Tax Refunds Work in Indonesia?
It’s easy! Just shop at participating stores, keep your receipts and refund forms, and claim your refund at the airport before departure.
Look for shops displaying the “VAT Refund for Tourists” sign. Once you spend at least IDR 500,000 (about RM150) in a day at a single store, you can ask for a tax refund form.
Refunds are claimed at designated counters in major international airports like Soekarno-Hatta (Jakarta), Ngurah Rai (Bali), or Juanda (Surabaya).
Cheap Hotels in Bali
5 star
Great443 Ulasan
Nusa Dua Bali|16.74km dari pusat bandar
During my stay, the room linens weren't changed promptly (even with daily tips), and I encountered some hygiene issues with them. This was eventually resolved through Ctrip, but it did affect my overall experience. Aside from that, the hotel's service and facilities were good. The 'Lazy River' was a hit with the kids, though it was a bit short. The gym was very clean, and while the equipment was mostly fixed machines, it was sufficient for a regular workout. The restaurant didn't have air conditioning (which is common in Bali, and it wasn't too hot), so there were a lot of flies (also a common Bali phenomenon). There was a wide variety of food, and the rose apples were good, but other fruits were just average. Next time I visit, I'll still choose a hotel in the Nusa Dua area (it's safe, has a good environment, and is convenient for dining, shopping, transportation, and hospitals), but it might not necessarily be the Courtyard.DariUS$ 112
Great108 Ulasan
Ubud Bali|22.98km dari pusat bandar
This is a premium hotel far outside of Ubud center. Be aware you are about 30 minutes from Ubud if you stay here and there really isn't much to do in the immediate area besides stare at the jungle. Staff was outstanding here with frequent greetings by name and remembering you like a Ritz Carlton.
Because I enjoy regular outings I actually found the location quite inconvenient as an hour a day would have to be devoted just to getting to and from Ubud.
The room I got was enormous and included a dining room, sitting room, bedroom, large bathroom. The in room amenities were great including a free restocking mini bar with snacks (no alcohol) and a large smart TV. The bed was huge, soft, and comfortable.
The bathtub was a downside as it was quite small by western standards (not as small as a japanese tub though). I'm not a very big individual at 173cm and I felt it was too narrow and not long enough. Perhaps suitable for petite individuals only. Be aware of that if like me and many Americans you prefer baths over showers.
The property is very large and you will likely want to regularly use the phone to request the on site golf cart shuttles to get around it as otherwise you will spend much of your time walking uphill from the rooms to the amenities near the entrance like the restaurant and pool.DariUS$ 88
Great546 Ulasan
Jimbaran Bali|14.95km dari pusat bandar
I recently stayed at the InterContinental Bali Resort and found the resort’s layout, grounds, and facilities to be excellent. The property is beautifully maintained and provides a pleasant and relaxing environment for guests.
Unfortunately, my overall experience was significantly affected by an issue I encountered on the second night of my stay. I was unable to sleep due to a strong and unpleasant smell coming from the pillows and bedding. The odor was similar to that of a room that had been left unused for an extended period.
At approximately 3:40 a.m., I contacted the hotel for assistance. While the staff responded promptly and replaced the pillows, I was informed that the smell was “normal,” which I found disappointing and concerning. The following day, I reported the matter to the receptionist, who kindly apologized for the inconvenience.
Regrettably, after this experience, I developed a severe cold and fever, which negatively affected the remainder of my stay. While I appreciate the apology and acknowledge the many positive aspects of the resort, I believe greater attention should be given to room freshness, bedding quality, and the handling of guest concerns, particularly when they impact a guest’s comfort and well-being.
I hope this feedback will be taken constructively and help improve the experience for future guests.DariUS$ 198
Great550 Ulasan
Uluwatu Bali|19.37km dari pusat bandar
The hotel is located on a hill, quite high up, so you definitely need a car to get around. There's one road that's in terrible condition – avoid it at all costs. The hotel is a bit older, so the rooms aren't brand new, but they are comfortable enough. The bathroom is as spacious as the bedroom, which is great. Breakfast was plentiful but not particularly tasty (a common issue in Bali). I bought a voucher for 800 RMB including breakfast for two during a promotion, and using it in June made it a really good deal. However, if it were 1000 RMB per night, I think there would be better options available.DariUS$ 171
Amazing565 Ulasan
Ubud Bali|16km dari pusat bandar
Very beautiful hotel. The food was delicious, and the hygiene was excellent. The service was also very good and polite. The common areas are lovely, and I even got a discount on a massage. Pison is right next door, and the location is fantastic, right next to the Monkey Forest.DariUS$ 148
Great294 Ulasan
Kuta Bali|10.22km dari pusat bandar
The hotel facilities and staff were impeccable and the food menu and breakfast large and varied for everyone. Although our room was not one of the newly renovated ones it was still very spacious and clean.
If we had any criticisms it would be the in room complimentary toiletries were very cheap and the happy hour menu restricted and no bulk cocktail options.
The grounds were stunning, the guests respectful and friendly down to earth, the location great with easy access to both the boardwalk and the streetDariUS$ 79
Business travel
Very Good414 Ulasan
Seminyak Bali|6.6km dari pusat bandar
Pleasant experience with this hotel but never stay long enough to give valuable feedback. However, from check-in to check-out, it was a seamless experience. Staffs are very nice. Upon entering the room, the taps, shower head, and toilet flush are very rusty & mouldy.. We requested for a change but water output was not better.. It was splashing in all directions, making washing up not a very pleasant experience. But you pay for what you get which was reasonable as long as water is clean.DariUS$ 13
Very Good405 Ulasan
Sanur Bali|7.01km dari pusat bandar
Prama Sanur Beach Bali is an established resort offering great value for money. Its biggest draw is the private beachfront, perfect for catching stunning sunrises, cycling, and enjoying water sports right from the hotel. The pool is large and surrounded by lush greenery. However, since the hotel has been around for a while, the rooms and bathrooms show their age. Overall, it's a good choice for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize a wide range of facilities and relaxing sea views, and aren't overly particular about the newest amenities.DariUS$ 89
Very Good324 Ulasan
Kuta Bali|10.42km dari pusat bandar
Really nice hotel, excellent value. I was only there for 1 night, but wish it was longer. Great location nearby the airport and plenty around the local area.
Room was very spacious and well equipped.
The stand out was the food from the room service, which was very inexpensive, and was exceptional (pictured), would highly recommend.
Staff all polite and friendly.DariUS$ 16
Great739 Ulasan
Kuta Bali|9.39km dari pusat bandar
We stayed at the hotel for 2 days and found no drawbacks during that time. Our room was far from the pool with a beautiful garden view, so it was quite quiet. In the mornings, we could hear staff starting their work from outside. The bathroom was large.
The room was clean, but there were small stains on the bed linen.
There are 2 pools nearby, one of which is 2m deep. Noisy groups tend to gather at the poolside bar, which dampens the relaxing atmosphere. It's about a 5-minute walk to the beach.
I recommend this hotel if you're staying for no longer than 5 days.DariUS$ 43
Very Good398 Ulasan
Seminyak Bali|6.77km dari pusat bandar
We stayed at D’prima Hotel Seminyak for 3 nights during a shopping-focused trip, and the location was exactly what we needed — right in the center of Seminyak with easy access to shops, cafes, and everything within walking distance. The room was spacious with a very large, comfortable bed, which made it easy to relax after long days out. The hotel is not new and you can notice this in details like the bathroom fixtures and some general wear, but everything was clean and overall comfortable. For the price, it’s a solid budget-friendly option in a great area, especially if you plan to spend most of your time exploring rather than staying at the hotel. If you’re looking for a simple, well-located place to sleep while enjoying Seminyak, this is a good choice.DariUS$ 23
Very Good542 Ulasan
Seminyak Bali|7.98km dari pusat bandar
Stay dates: May 2026 (3 nights)
Traveled with: Couple
Purpose of trip: Leisure
Room type booked: Double Room with Balcony (5th floor
)
1. Location & Accessibility
Excellent location. Right on a main street with countless bars and restaurants nearby. Very convenient for walking around the area. It is a busy street, but every street here is busy, so it’s expected. We felt very safe throughout our stay. Motorbike parking available and 24-hour reception.
2. Check-in / Check-out Experience
Smooth and efficient for both check-in and check-out. Staff were friendly and helpful — they assisted us with a SIM card issue at reception.
3. Room Quality & Comfort
The room was bright, airy, and very clean. We had a balcony on the 5th floor (top floor) overlooking the pool, which had a beautiful view. Housekeeping was excellent — they made up the room every day. Strong air conditioning, comfortable bed, and good lighting.
4. Bathroom
Really clean and well-maintained. Toiletries were provided and water bottles were replenished daily.
5. Staff & Service
Very friendly and helpful staff. Quick response at reception and good daily housekeeping.
6. Facilities & Amenities
The pool was really nice and well-kept. Fast and reliable Wi-Fi. We didn’t try breakfast. Motorbike parking and 24-hour reception were useful.
7. Value for Money
Really good value for money. We got a clean, bright room with a great pool-view balcony in a prime location at a fair price. No complaints.
8. Final Thoughts & Recommendation
I would definitely stay here again and recommend it to couples or anyone looking for a convenient, comfortable base with a nice pool. Great spot if you want to be close to restaurants and nightlife.DariUS$ 24
Breakfast
Very Good351 Ulasan
Ubud Bali|21.48km dari pusat bandar
The cliffside infinity pool offers stunning views of the rainforest terraces and valleys, with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets – perfect for incredible photos.
Enjoy ultimate privacy in a secluded rainforest villa, quiet and peaceful, far from the hustle and bustle of Ubud.
The butler service is attentive, there's a 24-hour front desk, free city shuttle, professional spa, and the floating breakfast is amazing.
The rooms are spacious, with Zen-inspired Balinese decor, clean, tidy, and have excellent terrace views.
Forest yoga and rice field trekking provide a healing and relaxing experience, making it ideal for a romantic honeymoon.
Be aware of mosquitoes and geckos: it's inevitable in a rainforest villa, and you might occasionally find small lizards indoors, so definitely come prepared with mosquito repellent.DariUS$ 79
Very Good543 Ulasan
Jimbaran Bali|14.1km dari pusat bandar
Let's start with the positives: this hotel boasts a fantastic pool with sea views and stunning sunsets. The location is great, just a 5-minute walk to the beach. It's also a quick 15-minute taxi ride to the airport. Breakfasts are good, and the coffee is tasty. And that's pretty much where the good stuff ends.
Now for the negatives: the rooms are very old and in desperate need of renovation. They're also dirty, with stains everywhere. There are no balconies, and the windows don't open. Nothing dries in the room, and due to poor ventilation, clothes actually get damp overnight. The soundproofing is terrible; you can hear everyone yelling in the hallway. The air conditioning units hum very loudly; our first night was awful because, in addition to the humming, there was also vibration – it was impossible to sleep. Even though we requested a quiet room, we were told it *was* quiet. They did change our room to a junior suite, which was clean and well-renovated. The AC unit still hummed in that one, but it was less noticeable due to the room's larger size. Toothbrushes, cotton swabs, and shower caps are only provided once upon check-in and are not replaced.
If you're looking for a European feel rather than something akin to Anapa, do not choose this hotel. Most guests here are Russians on tour packages.
I would only recommend this hotel for a one or two-night stay before a flight.DariUS$ 44
Amazing1141 Ulasan
Nusa Dua Bali|19.15km dari pusat bandar
This is one of the most famous hotels recently, so I had to come and experience it! The hotel is built on a cliff, and the entire lobby design is simply breathtaking – it feels grand and magnificent. The beach is also beautiful. In the evening, when the tide went out, we took the kids crab hunting, and they had so many wonderful memories! The only slight drawback was the breakfast flow; for such a large number of rooms, the breakfast area felt a bit small, which was a shame. A big thank you to Trip.com for getting us such a great room type on the day we booked!DariUS$ 312
Very Good174 Ulasan
Nusa Dua Bali|14km dari pusat bandar
This hotel is a very good choice 👍🏼 I am a little picky, but here’s my review:
Pros:
✅ No damp smell, well ventilated ( I was worried about this)
✅ No insects in the room. There might be some geckos 🦎 (which is normal and expected) but I didn’t see any.
✅ Very clean in general
✅ Comfortable bed
✅ The service is amazing
✅ The staff is very friendly and helpful
✅ The breakfast is very good, there are plenty of choices.
✅ Their restaurant is also very good, in case you don’t want to go out of the resort.
✅ The vibe at the beach is nice and if you like water sports it is also good.
✅ The pool is huge and very nice
✅ Reasonable price (but it will depend on the season and demand)
Cons:
😑 Sound proof can be better, one can hear everyone from the pool (the sound enters from the main door)
😑 The beach is not the best for swimming, and is a bit dirty in general (not the hotel’s fault)
😑 The gym can be better as there are only 3 machines (spinning, treadmill and elliptical) the dumbbells are fine
✅😄 Overall, recommended! I was happy with my stay at this hotel!
It is good to give it a try!DariUS$ 139
Great181 Ulasan
Jimbaran Bali|15.75km dari pusat bandar
Here’s a more natural and polished version of your review:
We love Mövenpick Hotels, even though we don’t have kids yet. If you’re looking for a family-friendly retreat with plenty of fun activities for children and an amazing pool experience, this is the perfect hotel. The breakfast was delicious, and the hotel provides a complimentary buggy to the beach every hour. Alternatively, it’s only a 5–10 minute walk.
Our only disappointment was the Chocolate Hour, which is a signature experience at Mövenpick Hotels. Unfortunately, it was the least impressive Chocolate Hour we’ve experienced compared to other Mövenpick properties.
Everything else was excellent, and we had a wonderful stay.DariUS$ 134
Amazing164 Ulasan
Sanur Bali|6.62km dari pusat bandar
We booked a king room with lagoon access and was upgraded to a suite (Thank you Andaz, was a lovely surprise). We had a beautiful, clean and spacious room with a massive patio that backed onto a lagoon connected to the main pool with a sea view. It felt like paradise. There were toads croaking after the rain. We saw cockatoos and many other kinds of bird. Bird sang every morning. We even a monitor lizard swimming in the spa’s lily pond. This place is bathed in nature. Service was friendly and warm from top notch staff. The turndown service every evening was a special touch, and the grounds were immaculately kept! There were almost always staff working away to keep the grounds pristine and lush. We really like the hotel’s layout where it seems (to us) that all rooms provide a good level of privacy and some kind of a view, be it lush beautiful gardens, pool or the beach. Lastly, the à la carte unlimited breakfast was what brought us here (from the flip flop traveller, iykyk) and it did not disappoint. What an amazing treat! Andaz Bali is truly a gem.DariUS$ 329
💸 Types of Tax Refunds in Indonesia
1. Airport Tax Refund
- Show your original passport, boarding pass, and VAT refund form
- Items must be unused and available for inspection
- Visit the VAT Refund Counter before check-in
- After verification, refund is given in cash (IDR) or to your credit card
2. Downtown Tax Refund Counters (Limited Availability)
- Some tourist-heavy areas like Kuta (Bali) have refund counters
- Refund is processed electronically, credited to your card
📝 Note: There’s no in-store immediate refund like in Korea — all refunds are processed at the airport or designated refund office
📊 Summary Table
Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
VAT Rate in Indonesia | 11% on most products |
Refund Amount | Up to 10% (after service fees) |
Minimum Spend | IDR 500,000 per receipt at same store |
Refund Points | Airport counters (Jakarta, Bali, Surabaya, etc.) |
Eligible Stores | Look for "VAT Refund for Tourists" sticker |
Refund Methods | Cash (IDR) or credit card |
1 Day - 2GB/Day
- Data2GB Daily
- Validity1 Day
- PriceFrom RM3.87
7 Days - 2GB/Day
- Data2GB Daily
- Validity7 Days
- PriceFrom RM24.17
10 Days - 30GB
- Data30GB
- Validity10 Days
- PriceFrom RM59.1
🧭 How Do I Get a Tax Refund in Indonesia?
✅ Step 1: Shop at VAT-Refund-Participating Stores
Look for the “VAT Refund for Tourists” sign. Popular areas include Seminyak, Ubud, Grand Indonesia Mall, Plaza Indonesia, and Sarinah.
✅ Step 2: Show Your Passport at Checkout
Ask the cashier for a tax refund form. Your passport is required for processing.
✅ Step 3: Keep Your Receipts, Refund Form, and Items
Don’t open or use the items before flying. You’ll need to show them at the airport.
✅ Step 4: Arrive Early at the Airport
Get to the airport at least 3 hours early — refund processing can take time, especially during peak travel periods.
✅ Step 5: Visit the VAT Refund Counter
Go to the VAT Refund for Tourists Counter before check-in. Show:
- Original passport
- Boarding pass
- Refund form and receipts
- Purchased items (unused)
If all’s good, the officer will process your refund in cash or credit card. 🧾💳
💡 Tips for Tax Refunds in Indonesia
- 📷 Photograph your receipts in case you misplace them
- 🧴 Keep items sealed until after refund claim
- 🏪 Shop in large department stores — easier to get refund forms
- 💳 Request credit card refund for higher-value purchases
- 📅 Claim refund within 1 month of purchase
- 👕 Combine same-day receipts from the same store
🧳 Final Thoughts on Tax Refunds in Indonesia
After experiencing it myself, I can honestly say — the Indonesia tax refund system is totally worth it! Whether you’re shopping for batik, local crafts, or modern fashion brands, that extra cashback can go toward your next adventure or a final treat at the airport. 🎁🍜
As a budget-savvy Malaysian traveler, I found the process clear and easy, especially at major airports. Just remember to shop at participating stores and go early for your refund — then enjoy the extra savings!
Planning your next trip? Don’t forget to:
👉 Book flights to Indonesia now on Trip.com
👉 Check top hotel deals in Bali or Jakarta
👉 Pre-book your Indonesia eSIM for instant connectivity
Selamat berbelanja, and happy travels! ✈️🌴
🙋♀️ FAQs About Indonesia Tax Refund
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❓1. Who is eligible for a tax refund in Indonesia?
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❓2. What kind of items qualify for a tax refund?
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❓3. How much is the refund?
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❓4. Where can I claim the refund?
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❓5. What documents do I need to bring?
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❓6. How is the refund paid?
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❓7. How long does the process take?
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❓8. Can I get a refund at the store?
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❓9. What if I lost my receipt or didn’t get the refund form?
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❓10. Can I combine multiple receipts to reach the IDR 500,000 minimum?
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