If you're planning a trip to Singapore and love shopping as much as I do, then listen up — because this travel tip will seriously help you stretch your Ringgit! 💸 As a Malaysian traveler, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that Singapore offers tax refunds (GST refunds) for tourists on a wide range of purchases.
From Orchard Road’s fashion boutiques to skincare at Changi Airport, you can claim back part of the 9% GST (Goods and Services Tax) on your spending — and yes, it’s easier than you might think! 😍🛍️
Whether you’re visiting Singapore for a weekend getaway, family trip, or quick shopping run, knowing how the Singapore Tourist Refund Scheme works can help you save more while enjoying the Lion City. 🧴👟🎧
✨ Ready to shop smart in Singapore?
👉 Book your flight to Singapore now on Trip.com
👉 Find hotel deals in Singapore here
👉 Need internet? Pre-order your Singapore eSIM here
In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how Singapore’s tax refund system works, how much you can get back, who’s eligible, and my own step-by-step experience. 💼✈️💳
🧐 What is a Singapore Tax Refund?
When you shop in Singapore, you pay a Goods and Services Tax (GST) — which is 9% as of 2024. But here’s the best part: as a non-resident tourist, you can get a refund on GST for eligible purchases made at participating stores under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS). 🙌
It’s like a mini cashback reward just for shopping across the Causeway 😄🛒
💰 How Much is GST in Singapore?
GST is currently 9% on most goods. If you’re shopping for luxury items, electronics, or branded skincare, that can add up quickly. Good news is, you can get most of that refunded! 💳💸
🔙 How Much Can I Get Back?
After administrative fees, you can usually expect a refund of around 7%–8%. For example, I spent about SGD 800 (~RM2,800) and got back around SGD 60 (~RM210) — which I happily spent on snacks at Changi Airport! 😆🍫
👤 Am I Eligible for a Tax Refund?
source from https://mytour.vn/
Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
Nationality | Non-Singaporeans (Malaysians ✅) |
Stay Duration | Less than 365 days in Singapore |
Minimum Spend | SGD 100 at a single participating retailer |
Departure | Must leave Singapore via Changi Airport or Seletar Airport |
Goods Status | Items must be unused and carried out with you (hand-carry preferred) |
🛍️ How Do Tax Refunds Work in Singapore?
Shopping in Singapore is easy, and claiming your GST back is even easier if you follow these steps. Look for “Tax-Free Shopping” or TRS logos at stores.
You can claim your tax back:
- 💵 At the airport via self-help kiosks or manual counters
- 📲 Or use the eTRS system (linked to your passport and purchases)
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The showcase marks the first tripartite collaboration between POP MART, the Singapore Tourism Board and the National Museum of Singapore, and invites new and longtime fans to experience the artistic vision behind the character while strengthening Singapore's position as a dynamic cultural destination.
💸 Types of Tax Refunds in Singapore
source from https://kaizenaire.com/
1. eTRS (Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme)
Most big stores (like Uniqlo, Sephora, Apple, etc.) offer this. You just:
- Shop and provide your passport
- The store links your purchase to eTRS digitally — no paper form needed!
2. GST Refund at the Airport
Before departure at Changi or Seletar Airport:
- Use the eTRS kiosk before check-in
- Scan your passport and receipts
- If required, present goods for inspection
- Choose your refund method: credit card, Alipay, WeChat Pay, or cash (SGD)
💡 Tip: For high-value items like electronics, keep them in your hand-carry luggage for possible checks.
Cheap Flights from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore
- Sehala
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KUL21:501j 15mTanpa hentiSIN23:05Kuala Lumpur - Singapore|Jum, 9 Jan|AirAsia€ 10€ 2663% off63% off€ 26€ 10 
KUL22:001j 15mTanpa hentiSIN23:15Kuala Lumpur - Singapore|Jum, 9 Jan|Scoot€ 12€ 2652% off52% off€ 26€ 12- KUL22:001j 15mTanpa hentiSIN23:15Kuala Lumpur - Singapore|Isn, 12 Jan|Scoot€ 13€ 2652% off52% off€ 26€ 13
- KUL06:001j 5mTanpa hentiSIN07:05Kuala Lumpur - Singapore|Isn, 12 Jan|AirAsia€ 16€ 16
- KUL07:101j 10mTanpa hentiSIN08:20Kuala Lumpur - Singapore|Ahd, 11 Jan|AirAsia€ 17€ 17
- KUL22:001j 15mTanpa hentiSIN23:15Kuala Lumpur - Singapore|Rab, 14 Jan|Scoot€ 18€ 18
- KUL22:001j 15mTanpa hentiSIN23:15Kuala Lumpur - Singapore|Rab, 11 Feb|Scoot€ 18€ 18
- KUL20:351j 20mTanpa hentiSIN21:55Kuala Lumpur - Singapore|Sab, 17 Jan|AirAsia€ 18€ 18
KUL1:00 PM3j 5mTanpa hentiSIN2:00 PMKuala Lumpur - Singapore|Wed, Jan 14|AirAsiaCari Penerbangan LainCari Penerbangan Lain
Tambang penerbangan yang dipaparkan dari ${{departCityName}} ke ${{arrivalCityName}} adalah berdasarkan harga purata daripada pelbagai syarikat penerbangan untuk 3 bulan seterusnya, mengikut pangkalan data Trip.com terkini.
📊 Singapore Tax Refund Summary Table
Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
GST Rate | 9% |
Refund Amount | ~7%–8% after fees |
Minimum Spend | SGD 100 per store |
Refund Location | Changi / Seletar Airport only |
Refund Methods | Cash (SGD), Credit Card, Alipay, WeChat Pay |
Eligible Stores | Stores using the eTRS system (ask cashier!) |
🧭 How Do I Get a Tax Refund in Singapore?
✅ Step 1: Shop at eTRS-Participating Stores
Look for the “Tax Free” or eTRS logo, or just ask the staff.
✅ Step 2: Provide Your Passport
At checkout, show your Malaysian passport — the system will link your details.
✅ Step 3: Keep Receipts & Carry Items
Keep receipts (just in case), and bring high-value goods in hand-carry bags.
✅ Step 4: Go to the Airport Early
Arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure — refunds take time if there’s a queue.
✅ Step 5: Use eTRS Kiosk or Counter
- Scan your passport or credit card
- Review purchases, and confirm refund
- If needed, go for customs inspection
- Choose your refund method and collect your cash 💵
Cheap Hotels in Singapore
5 star
Very Good921 Ulasan
Singapore River Singapore|2.11km dari pusat bandar
Stayed for 4 nights, and on two of those nights, I found cockroaches. I couldn't take it anymore and made the hotel change my room at 2 AM. The hotel feels like it's been renovated, a mix of new and old. I kept feeling like the countertops and facilities in the room were covered in a layer of dust, and the cleaning wasn't very thorough. The tabletops weren't cleaned. I'm usually pretty easygoing, but I constantly felt like there was dust on everything I used 🥲 I'm not posting photos because I was so freaked out that I deleted them.Dari€153
Great1988 Ulasan
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km dari pusat bandar
Conveniently located within Orchard Road shopping district to -
1/ Several Shopping Malls
2/ Good Restaurants
3/ Quality Cafe's
4/ Hair & Beauty Salons
5/ Nails Spa
6/ Bus Stops
7/ MRT station
Professional front office staffs with fast check in & out.
Spacious rooms with quality King size bed.
Good size bath cubicle and toilet + wash basin area.
Unblock view from bedroom & Royal Club Lounge
Friendly & professional service @ Royal Club Lounge
Good varieties for afternoon tea, evening drinks & morning continental breakfast.
Certainly will come back again.Dari€122
Amazing2026 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|0.99km dari pusat bandar
💝 Unforgettable memories and impressions that will stay with us for the rest of our lives! 💝
🎶 Eunice Marasigan welcomed us and surrounded us with such care. You will be in our memory for a long time!
Do I need to write that this hotel is a symbol of Singapore? Is it necessary to describe the delight of the view from the observation deck and from the pool? You need to see this with your own eyes, because the photo does not convey even half of the beauty that the eye sees.
💸 It is expensive. 💸
☺️ Marina Bay Sands is my dream come true. I hope I can come back again. 😇Dari€499
Great1660 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|1.78km dari pusat bandar
Carlton is located in the middle of the city with easy access to shopping malls, convenience stores, train station. Gym is superb! I used it everyday. Staff were very helpful and friendly. They also have changing room for you to refresh if you have checked out the hotel. The only con is that they don't have bidet in any of the toilet. Overall, it was awesome staying in the hotel. Thanks Carlton!Dari€152
Very Good1200 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|1.34km dari pusat bandar
I was really unhappy with the room. For the same price, I saw on Xiaohongshu that others got high-floor rooms in the South Tower with views of Marina Bay Sands, but I was stuck on the 7th floor (pretty much the lowest). Every time I went in and out, I never saw anyone else on my floor; everyone seemed to be on higher floors. When I opened the curtains, it looked like a construction site. The soundproofing was terrible; I could hear everything in the hallway as if it were right next to me. Even after turning off the AC, the room was still very cold, and it was quite small. The toilet kept making a siphoning sound from the drain after flushing. The room was tiny, a corner room on the 7th floor. The hangers were dusty, and there were stains on the corner of the duvet and sheets. I never opened the curtains again. I feel like if you speak good English and are easygoing, they tend to give you a bad room. The only good thing was the great location; it was within walking distance to attractions like the Merlion, Fort Canning, and various museums and galleries.Dari€173
Great1682 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|1.47km dari pusat bandar
Dear Management,
I am writing to submit a formal complaint regarding several serious incidents that occurred during my stay at your hotel from December 11 to December 13, 2025. These experiences caused me significant distress and made my stay extremely uncomfortable.
During my stay, I attempted to dine at the three restaurants located within the hotel. However, all of them were filled with outside customers who were not staying at the hotel, and I was repeatedly denied service despite being a paying hotel guest. It is unacceptable that hotel guests are not prioritized or even accommodated while outside customers are being served.
As a result, I was extremely hungry and had no choice but to order McDonald’s, as I was unable to access food within the hotel. This situation was both frustrating and unacceptable.
In addition, when I attempted to order a drink downstairs, the waiter treated me disrespectfully, gave me unfriendly looks, and ignored my request. My order was never delivered. Furthermore, I was denied entry to the two restaurants located downstairs, while other guests were allowed to enter freely. This treatment felt discriminatory and deeply unfair.Dari€273
Great3546 Ulasan
Marina Bay Singapore|1.49km dari pusat bandar
I only stayed one night. The hotel's location is excellent, directly connected to City Hall MRT and a shopping mall. Food and drinks are very convenient. There are also nice attractions nearby, great for a stroll. The hotel lobby has TWG tea and pastries, so it's easy to buy some tea. The hotel room had a very wide bed, comfortable bedding, and a nice view from the window. The shower in the bathroom was also large and very comfortable. Breakfast was average; it had everything you'd expect, nothing special. The hygiene conditions were good. A German restaurant on the first floor made excellent, very exquisite desserts.
When checking in, a young lady with extremely long fingernails processed my check-in. While doing so, she kept touching her nose and chin. With such long nails, it took a long time to navigate between the keyboard and her nose before check-in was completed, which made me quite uncomfortable. When I booked the room, I explicitly requested ”not a room near the elevator.” However, upon entering my room, it was right in front of the elevator door. I guess the lady with the long nails didn't bother checking the notes. I understand nail art, but when the length of the nails affects typing on a computer, it feels very unprofessional and, more importantly, unhygienic.
Regarding the room near the elevator, I immediately called, and another young lady handled the matter. She helped me change rooms within 5 minutes and had someone bring up the new key card. That was very efficient. Check-out was quick, with staff processing it swiftly and conveniently.
Overall, the stay experience was very good. I just hope the front desk lady doesn't have such long nails; it's already affecting her work. Also, paying more attention to guests' needs would better reflect the concept of good service.Dari€212
Very Good1656 Ulasan
Orchard Road Singapore|3.93km dari pusat bandar
My parents, child, and I recently traveled to Singapore and stayed at the Orchard Hotel. We were absolutely delighted and satisfied with our stay! LEN at the front desk was wonderful! She upgraded both my parents' room and my own (for myself and my child) to spacious family rooms. The beds were large and incredibly comfortable. She even provided complimentary breakfast for my child – truly thoughtful service! A huge thank you to LEN for making our family's Singapore trip so pleasant and comfortable. We will definitely choose Orchard Hotel again on our next visit to Singapore! The hotel rooms were very quiet, the lobby had an impressive and grand design, and the breakfast was plentiful and delicious! I highly recommend staying here.Dari€152
Business travel
Very Good1537 Ulasan
Bugis Singapore|2.32km dari pusat bandar
Returned to stay after six years and the hotel is now rebranded as LYF Bugis Singapore. The atmosphere is very different from the boutique style I remembered, now focused on a modern co-living concept with smaller shared spaces.
I stayed in the One of A Kind Plus room， clean, simple and spacious but extremely minimalistic. The TV has no channels (only casting) and basic amenities like slippers and toothbrushes must be requested.
The location is still excellent, close to Bugis and MRT but overall the experience no longer matches the cosy boutique feel it used to have. Clean and convenient but not what I expected.Dari€82
Very Good1433 Ulasan
Bugis Singapore|1.94km dari pusat bandar
Hotel located at a great location along Queen Street, surrounded with heritage buildings and churches. 200m walking distance from Bras Basah MRT Station. Just two stops from Orchard Road. On the other side, visitors are welcomed by Bugis Street, Bugis+, Bugis Junction, Albert Centre for some of the best hawker food, Bencoolen and Waterloo. Within walking distance to Haji Lane and Northbridge for those who are adventurous. Always a wise choice to book your stay with Hotel Royal @ Queens.Dari€75
Very Good2851 Ulasan
Lavender Singapore|3.37km dari pusat bandar
Staff was friendly when approached. Location is very good near a MRT station and enough restaurants. Breakfast was good and had enough variation but the offerings outside were very tempting. I requested a room with a high view at the stadium and the water. But the pictures on the bookingsite are very old and not valid anymore. There are taller buildings located between the V-Lavender hotel and the stadium now. The City view was not breathtaking but ok. A pity the windowsill was made of marble/stonelike material so not really comfortable to sit. But it still offers a nice place to sit and look outside with a (free) cup of tea of coffee.Dari€77
Very Good1017 Ulasan
Singapore River Singapore|1.77km dari pusat bandar
Traveling with my parents, I chose this hotel because I felt the loft rooms wouldn't feel too cramped (hotel rooms in Singapore are generally on the smaller side). It was decent for a family of three. The upstairs area was okay; we could fit one or two suitcases and there was a chair. Downstairs, there was no seating other than the bed. The mattress was a bit soft, making it a bit of an effort for the person sleeping inside to get out. Coffee and tea bags were provided. Just a short walk from the hotel's parking area is the Singapore River, surrounded by many dining options (mostly Western cuisine). There were quite a few people exercising and cycling. It's a bit of a walk to the MRT station, but there's a smaller food court about 600 meters away where we had several meals. Overall, the hotel is quite clean and new. However, the air freshener scent in the hallway outside the elevator was quite strong initially, though it improved over the next few days. The lobby scent was fine. Plus, there are several 7-Eleven stores nearby, making it very convenient for buying things. Overall, our stay was quite good, and the housekeeping was very clean.Dari€100
Very Good785 Ulasan
Singapore River Singapore|1.87km dari pusat bandar
I booked this hotel during a promotion, and for just over 600 SGD, it's a pretty good deal in Singapore. The room size is probably its biggest advantage; it's quite spacious compared to other hotels. The decor is a bit dated, but it's still clean and tidy. The shower is in the bathtub, which isn't the most convenient. There's a water dispenser in the common area outside the room, so you can fill up your cup or bottle. It's about a five to six-minute walk to Clarke Quay MRT station, and Chinatown and Fort Canning are both within a few kilometers.Dari€59
Very Good754 Ulasan
Bugis Singapore|2.81km dari pusat bandar
Very very nice family room ... The kids love it so much that they didn't want to go out ... So we just ordered ... & Literally enjoyed the room. Bathroom was amazingly clean & functioning .... However a bidet will be superb added feature for the WC. The projector was unique to have instead of a TV .. just that the viewing angle is a lil too high. We had some problem login to Netflix ... But staff was fast in responding. Overall .... Very good location for staycay ..... With kiddos .... So much option for food as well. Kids can't wait to come againDari€59
Very Good2266 Ulasan
Harbourfront Singapore|3.39km dari pusat bandar
I love the ambiance, the space is suitable for a solo travellers like me. Btw, i chose to stay here because i have company dinner at RWS so it was really convenience for me to travel between the hotel and the dinner's venue. So it is really recommended for those who wants to go to USS but want to stay for a cheaper choice to book accomodation here 👍🏻👍🏻Dari€46
Very Good1132 Ulasan
Bugis Singapore|2.11km dari pusat bandar
This hotel is incredibly convenient for transportation. Trains and buses are right nearby, making it easy to reach all the attractions. The breakfast is extensive, and the staff are very enthusiastic. The only minor drawback is that the Deluxe King Room is a bit small.Dari€77
Breakfast
1658 Ulasan
Singapore River Singapore|1.59km dari pusat bandar
The location is strategic, town area
nearby Singapore River. Going to MBS, Merlion Park, Chinatown, Clarke Quay, Fort Canning Park, all tourists spots are nearby. Easy to take grab/cab and MRT station. Good reception and friendly and helpful. Most important is free parking for guests. We can park car over here and go anywhere nearbyDari€44
Very Good1101 Ulasan
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.92km dari pusat bandar
Pros: The location is absolutely fantastic! There's a bus shuttle right outside the entrance, and you can take the island's buggies for free. The beach is right there for sunset views and swimming.
The hotel pool is super comfortable, and there's a small hot spring pool next to it. The restaurant downstairs unexpectedly serves delicious food too.
Before booking, I was a bit worried after reading reviews about discrimination, but when I arrived, I found there was none at all. A gentleman at the front desk even spoke a little Chinese, so communication was largely smooth.
During your stay, you can ride the Sentosa Express for free. On the day you arrive, before checking in, remember to show your booking confirmation to the staff at the Sentosa Express ticket booth, and they'll let you in for free.
It's incredibly close to Universal Studios, just one Sentosa Express stop away – perfect for enjoying yourself to the fullest! 🥰
Cons: The room was really small and old. Our reserved room was on the second floor, directly facing the road. It wasn't noisy, but it was a bit inconvenient for getting to the pool and such. However, the cleanliness was fine, and we didn't encounter many ants, which was lucky, lucky! ☺️
Overall, I'd give it five stars! The pool and the sunset view right outside the entrance were huge pluses. This kind of location on Sentosa Island would typically cost over a thousand, so what more could you ask for? 🥳Dari€86
Very Good1203 Ulasan
Novena Singapore|4.21km dari pusat bandar
I really like this Hotel in singapore. It is as it's slogan ”Every room A Home” it is really is. By the time i went to the room i feel the room is quite spacious. That is no1. Priority for most of the guest i think. The feel is very warm and all the amanities inside the room are just in right place, the bathroom is quite spacious and using flulances light very bright i like it very much, i don't want bath room is dark dark. Moreover, bath tub is clean and faucets are working well.
The counter top granite and attached dryer are the things i really like it.
Room floor is placing wood pacaque, it is good for most of the ladies guest and elderly guest i believe and it gives warm feel confortable.
Bustop just infront of hotel how convienents is it? Doesn't like other ares this Newton area at night is very peaceful and very relaxing *location wise very good* near to 2 big shopping mall and eateries.
The lobby is very good ambiance. Neat, simple and tidy.Dari€67
Great2567 Ulasan
Orchard Road Singapore|3.66km dari pusat bandar
I had a truly enjoyable stay at YOTEL Singapore Orchard Road. From arrival to departure, everything was efficient, smooth, and thoughtfully designed.
The check-in and check-out process was quick and seamless, setting the tone for a hassle-free stay. The room, while compact, was exceptionally well-designed, spotless, and very comfortable—perfectly reflecting YOTEL’s smart-luxury concept.
Dining was another highlight. The food was well-prepared and enjoyable, with a relaxed yet contemporary atmosphere that made both breakfast and casual meals pleasant.
What stood out most was the overall experience—efficient service, great location, and a strong sense of modern hospitality. It’s an excellent choice for business or leisure travelers who value convenience, comfort, and innovation.
Well done to the YOTEL Singapore team for delivering a consistently high standard. I would gladly return.Dari€75
Very Good1081 Ulasan
Lavender Singapore|3.73km dari pusat bandar
Rooms did not have a place to open any windows for fresh air. If the vents aren't working well it can feel a bit suffocating. Staff was very friendly and accommodating though.Dari€56
Very Good638 Ulasan
Geylang Singapore|4.46km dari pusat bandar
I had such a wonderful stay here! The room was spacious and very clean, and the bathroom was spotless with everything I needed — even a bidet spray, which was a nice touch. My favorite part was definitely the warm spray shower. It felt so soothing and relaxing, almost like enjoying a mini onsen after a long day.
The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, especially the short-haired lady at the front desk — she was so polite, friendly, and made me feel truly cared for.
The location is also very convenient — just a 3-minute walk to local restaurants (including a delicious Thai eatery and a famous porridge shop called Jok Kob), a bus stop, and a convenience store. Everything about this place made my stay comfortable and peaceful. I’d love to come back again someday. 💛Dari€62
Great2827 Ulasan
Sentosa Island Singapore|4.6km dari pusat bandar
Location: On Sentosa Island, just one subway stop from Universal Studios and very close to the beach. There's a 7-Eleven and KFC nearby, so it's convenient for food.
Room size: Very small but well-equipped with nice decor. The pool view is great.
Cleanliness: Clean and tidy, and there's a mini-fridge for drinks and ice cream.
Service: Arrived at 12 PM and was told check-in was at 3 PM, which was quite late. Luckily, when I asked again at 2 PM, I was able to check in. I had planned to take the shuttle back to the hotel from VivoCity but missed it. A great perk is free monorail access to Sentosa when staying at the hotel.
Value for money: Average, as prices are high on the island.Dari€158
Great602 Ulasan
Singapore River Singapore|1.12km dari pusat bandar
The best thing about the hotel is location. It’s very near to tourist point such as Chinatown, Clarke quay, Merlion park and so on. In front of the hotel, there are the mrt and the Clarke quay Central. Very convenient for going everywhere in Sg and find something to eat for bf and dinner.
The downside: The shower room and toilet is separate and there is only the curtain between shower zone and sleeping zone. If your roommate go to the toilet in the middle, the sound of the flush might be bother. Moreover there is a construction (july 2025) near the hotel. You might hear the sound of the construction some time.Dari€123
💡 Tax Refund Tips in Singapore
Here’s what I’ve learned as a fellow Malaysian traveler:
- 📷 Snap photos of receipts just in case
- 🧳 Hand-carry big-ticket items like laptops, cameras, luxury bags
- 🏪 Shop at large chain stores for smoother refund processing
- 💳 Choose credit card or Alipay for faster refunds (cash may have limits)
- ⏰ Don’t leave it till the last minute! Changi can get busy
💸 Is It Worth Getting a Tax Refund in Singapore?
Definitely YES! For Malaysians who shop smart and travel often, the Singapore tax refund system is a great way to save. If you’re already spending on skincare, fashion, or electronics, why not claim some of that money back? 😎🎁
Even a small refund can go a long way — I used mine to buy kaya toast and a kopi before boarding my flight. Worth it lah! 🍞☕💕
🧳 Final Thoughts on Tax Refund in Singapore
Getting a GST refund in Singapore is super worth it — especially if you love shopping like I do! 🛍️ The process is fast, digital, and very tourist-friendly. As a Malaysian who crosses the Causeway quite often, this little hack has become a regular part of my trip planning.
So if you’re heading to Singapore soon, don’t leave that money behind. Shop, scan, and claim your refund before flying home! 🧾💰✈️
👉 Book your flight to Singapore now on Trip.com
👉 Find the best hotels near Orchard Road, Bugis, or Marina Bay
👉 Get a Singapore eSIM or SIM card for instant connectivity
Safe travels and happy shopping! ❤️
FAQs About Singapore Tax Refund
❓1. What is the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) in Singapore?
The Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) allows international visitors (including Malaysians!) to claim a refund on the 9% Goods and Services Tax (GST) paid on eligible purchases made in Singapore. It’s Singapore’s version of a tourist tax refund — and yes, it works! 🛍️💵❓2. Am I eligible for a GST refund?
Yes, you are eligible if: ✅ You're not a Singapore citizen or PR ✅ You spend less than 365 days in Singapore over the past 24 months ✅ You depart via Changi or Seletar Airport ✅ Your purchase is at least SGD 100 at a participating TRS store ✅ You bring the unused goods out of Singapore within 2 months❓3. What is the GST rate in Singapore?
As of 2024, the GST rate is 9%. If you spend SGD 500, for example, that’s SGD 45 in GST — and you can claim most of it back. 💰❓4. How much GST can I get back?
You’ll typically get about 7%–8% refunded after administrative fees. The exact amount depends on your purchase value and refund method.❓5. What is eTRS?
eTRS (Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme) is a digital system used in Singapore. Instead of filling forms, your passport is scanned at checkout and purchases are linked electronically. At the airport, you simply scan your passport at a kiosk to process your refund.❓6. What items are eligible for GST refund?
You can claim GST refund on physical goods like: 👗 Clothing & fashion 🧴 Skincare and cosmetics 🎧 Electronics and gadgets 🎁 Souvenirs and accessories 🚫 Not eligible: Services, hotel stays, food & beverages consumed in Singapore, or anything used before departure.❓7. Where do I claim my GST refund?
You can claim your refund only at the airport: 🛫 Changi Airport (all terminals) 🛫 Seletar Airport Use the eTRS kiosks located before immigration (for goods checks) and after immigration (to submit your refund claim).❓8. What do I need to present at the airport?
🛂 Your passport 🧾 Your purchase receipts 🧳 The physical goods (especially high-value items) 💳 Credit card, Alipay/WeChat Pay (for refund) 💡 Tip: Pack expensive items like laptops or bags in hand-carry for inspection if needed.❓9. How long does the refund take?
💳 Credit card refunds: Usually within 10 working days 💵 Cash refunds (SGD): Immediate (limited to SGD 500) 📱 eWallets (Alipay/WeChat Pay): Immediate or within 3–5 days❓10. Can I get my refund in cash?
Yes, but: 💵 Maximum SGD 500 in cash per tourist For higher amounts, refund goes to credit card or e-wallet Cash counters may have longer queues❓11. What happens if I forget to claim my refund?
Sadly, if you forget to process your refund before departure, or you miss the Customs check (if required), you won’t be able to claim it later. So always arrive early — at least 2.5–3 hours before your flight.❓12. Can I claim a refund at land borders (like Johor–Woodlands)?
🚫 No. You must depart Singapore by air via Changi or Seletar Airport to be eligible for the tax refund.