Tourists to receive financial break
Visitors to Switzerland can from May 1 purchase souvenirs like watches and jewellery without paying Value Added Tax (VAT).
Currently tourists must fill out an official form for any souvenirs they are taking out of the country – which must be stamped by Swiss customs – if they want to receive back the VAT.
In future, any foreign customs officials, or Swiss embassy or consulate, can confirm that the object in question has been taken out of Switzerland.
Members of tour groups will have it easier. The tour operators will be able to ask to receive VAT-free status. If approved, VAT will not be added to any souvenir purchases made by the group.
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