Tourists shopping at a souvenir shop

On April 8, 2025, the State Taxation Administration of China made an official announcement, meticulously detailing the key points, procedural requirements, and implementation timeline of the “Instant Tax Refund upon Purchase” policy for outbound tax refunds. This service initiative, previously piloted in various regions, is now being rolled out nationwide.
 

The “Instant Tax Refund upon Purchase” policy revolutionizes the tax refund experience for international visitors, allowing them to receive immediate tax refunds on the spot after shopping without having to wait until they leave China to complete the refund process at the airport or port. This represents a significant enhancement to the previous “departure tax refund” framework, designed to offer more convenient and versatile tax refund options for overseas tourists. This policy has already demonstrated promising results in pilot programs conducted in major regions, including Shanghai, Beijing, Guangdong, Sichuan, Zhejiang, and Shenzhen.
 

Foreign tourists who enjoy “Instant Tax Refund upon Purchase” should comply with the departure tax refund policy and follow the following procedures:
 

After purchasing goods in a store with the “Instant Tax Refund upon Purchase” service, tourists are required to sign and confirm an agreement provided by the merchant. Then, with the help of the merchant, go through the credit card pre-authorization procedure. The merchant will issue you the “Departure Tax Refund Application Form for Overseas Tourists” and pay you the tax refund amount on the spot.
 

When leaving China, tourists need to present the purchased tax-refundable items, corresponding invoices, the “Departure Tax Refund Application Form for Overseas Tourists”, and their passports for customs declaration. They are required to undergo inspection and verification by the customs authorities.
 

The tax refund agency will review the submitted documents. If the tourist meets the criteria of the “Instant Tax Refund upon Purchase” policy, the credit card pre-authorization will be released. 

If tourists miss the stipulated time and their credit cards are charged, they can also apply for tax refund at the airport or port according to the general process when leaving China.

See more: Tax Refund in China
 

Tourists buying silk products

A jewelry store in Beijing

China is a shopping paradise brimming with unique treasures. From intricately designed souvenirs that capture the essence of Chinese culture to practical daily essentials, the diversity here is truly astonishing. Whether you’re looking for daily apparel, delicate porcelains, or electronic products, you'll find high-quality items at affordable prices. It is believed that this “Instant Tax Refund” policy will make your China tour more fulfilling and wonderful.

  8 Days Small Group Tour of Beijing - Xi'an - Shanghai
10 Days Private Tour of Beijing - Xi'an - Guilin - Yangshuo - Guilin - Shanghai
14 Days Private Tour of Beijing - Xi'an - Chengdu - Guilin - Yangshuo - Zhangjiajie - Shanghai
21 Days Private Tour of Hidden Charms of China