If you're traveling by airplane, there are multiple options to obtain proof of export. The validation method depends on the EU country you are departing from and where your purchases were made.
You must obtain export validation at the last EU airport you depart from before leaving the European Union.
Customs desks are available at all international airports in the EU, 24/7.
Customs is usually located in departure halls, close to check-in desks. Follow the signs for customs or ask an airport employee to point you in the right direction.
If the customs desk is closed there is usually a telephone number displayed on the desk which you can call outside of opening hours. A customs employee will come down to the desk to assist you.
Digital validation in the Netherlands
At Dutch airports, Customs will digitally validate receipts issued by Dutch stores. In this case, no physical customs stamp is provided.
Important: Dutch Customs can only digitally validate receipts from Dutch retailers. Receipts issued in other EU countries must still be validated manually with a physical customs stamp.
Manual validation in other EU countries
In most EU countries, and for all non-Dutch purchase receipts, you must visit the customs desk and request a physical customs stamp on your documents.
Receipt requirements
To be eligible for customs validation, your purchase receipt must include:
➤ Traveller’s name
➤ Country of residence (outside the EU)
➤ Passport number
If your receipt does not contain this information, you must also bring a Tax-Free form to Customs. This requirement applies when departing from the Netherlands as well as from any other EU country.
✅ View our airports and customs guide to see exactly where and how to get an export validation in the EU country you're departing from. Please note that some airports digitally validate your invoices.
✅ Plan in some extra time at the airport before checking in as Customs might need to see your goods for inspection — 30 minutes is usually enough.
✅ Bring a Tax-Free form if you did not receive a valid purchase document from the store or if your receipt does not contain the required traveller information.
If customs validation was not completed before leaving the EU, you may declare your goods upon arrival in your non-EU destination country.
These customs offices are typically located between baggage claim and the airport exit. Local authorities may charge import taxes or duties based on local regulations.
This option does not always replace EU export validation and should only be used as a backup solution.
If you were unable to obtain customs validation at the airport, you may contact the embassy or consulate of:
• the EU country where you departed from, or
• the EU country where you purchased the goods.
Always contact the embassy in advance to confirm whether they can assist, as services vary.
Bring the following documents:
• Tax-Free form
• Purchase receipt(s)
• Purchased goods
• Flight itinerary showing your exit from the EU
• Passport
• If you hold an EU passport: an additional non-EU residence document (visa, residence permit, or work permit)
No proof of export = no refund.
We cannot process your refund without valid export validation (digital validation or customs stamp). EU tax authorities require official proof that the goods left the European Union. Processing refunds without validation may result in significant penalties for both retailers and refund operators.
Thank you for your understanding.