VAT refund in Northern Ireland
Why Do I Have to Pay VAT on My Order in Northern Ireland?
Since Brexit, Northern Ireland follows a special VAT regime. Unlike the rest of the UK, it continues to apply EU VAT rules for goods.
This means that when you order from a seller based in the EU (like us in France), your purchase is treated as an intra-EU sale, not a standard import.
How Does This Apply to My Order?
If you are a private customer (B2C) → VAT must be applied to your order. Depending on the case, it will be charged at the French rate or the Northern Ireland rate if the seller uses the OSS (One-Stop Shop) VAT system.
If you are a business with a VAT XI number (B2B) → VAT is not charged, but you must self-account for it in Northern Ireland.
Why Is VAT Applied When It’s Not for Great Britain?
In Great Britain (England, Scotland, Wales), different VAT rules apply to imports, including a £135 threshold below which VAT may not be charged. This threshold does not apply to Northern Ireland, as it follows EU VAT rules.
Can I Get a VAT Refund?
No, VAT is correctly applied to your order in accordance with the tax regulations in force.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us via our contact form.