VAT Rates for electronics

Stanlex


Joined: 02/09/2010
Posts: 24

Message Posted:
06/09/2010 20:28

Please who can tell me what the VAT rates are if i am sent a package containing Computer. 2 phones. and clothes.

keithcaley



Joined: 13/06/2008
Posts: 2521

Message Posted:
06/09/2010 21:48

The Customs department can tell you this.

They are located in the basement of the main Post Office - opposite the Telephone Building - the one with the big mast alongside.

Pippie


Joined: 02/12/2009
Posts: 1288

Message Posted:
06/09/2010 23:44

When you bring these items, first of all you'll have stoppage charges - usually around 115tl plus a charge for the services of a commissioner which can be perhaps 200-400tl. You have no choice about the commissioner, customs will not deal with you direct (another excuse for them to scrounge money out of you!). Then you have the customs charges. I'm assuming you're planning to bring new items (second hand is not allowed in this country unless it's for your own personal use). I'm not sure about the clothes and phones but electricals are charged at 16%. Sorry, I don't know the rates on second hand items for personal use.



Then comes the fun bit if you're bringing in new items. Customs will charge you according the value of those items. They will look at the invoice for the goods you have bought and decide whether to believe that that cost is about what those items would cost in the TRNC market. ... con't ...

Pippie


Joined: 02/12/2009
Posts: 1288

Message Posted:
06/09/2010 23:51

If they think they're too cheap, they'll decide on a value themselves and that's what they'll tax you on instead! So basically it's tough if you manage to negotiate a computer for say £500, that would normally be £800. Customs will say it's value is £800 and charge you on that!



Finally, before the items arrive (if new) I would suggest you ask a commissioner or agent (or if you can find someone in customs who can answer the question) about whether you will need to apply for permission to import the electrical items. I'm not sure if they're for personal use but for businesses you have to apply to the electrical engineer's dept then the trade ministry for permissions to import. And any communication equipment, inc. telephones, require a separate permission. And every piece of paper will cost you around 30tl per set of items!



Good luck!