VAT refunds in Colombia

Travelers to Colombia now can request a refund of the VAT (Value Added Tax) added to purchases of the following items: clothing, shoes, leather goods, toys, CDs, food for human consumption, liquor, perfumes, crafts, jewelry and handmade Colombian emerald jewelry.

A visitor needs proof of his nationality and receipts in hand to process the application at a National Directorate of Taxes & Customs (DIAN) office in an international airport. Refunds are paid to the credit card used for purchase and should be posted within 90 days.