Answered5 years ago
Does Apple Store in Thailand offer VAT refunds and what are the pros and cons of buying Apple products there versus the US?
I need to get a new computer and I'm planning to buy the new MacBook Pro when it comes out next month before I leave.
Does anyone know if the Apple Store offers VAT refund? And are there any cons to buying Apple products in Thailand vs the US?
Does anyone know if the Apple Store offers VAT refund? And are there any cons to buying Apple products in Thailand vs the US?
Answer summary
The discussion revolves around purchasing Apple products, specifically a MacBook Pro, in Thailand versus the US. Key points include that the Apple Store in Thailand does offer VAT refunds for tourists, provided specific procedures are followed at the airport. Pros of buying in Thailand include potentially favorable exchange rates and the dual language keyboard option. However, cons consist of difficulties in reselling products with US keyboards locally and warranty limitations, as warranties are typically only valid in the country of purchase. Comparisons of prices indicate that products may be cheaper in Thailand, especially when sales tax is considered in the US.
20 repliesnewest first
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Dave ********
The warranty is only valid in the country of purchase, therefore if you take it back to the US and it develops a fault, you would have to bring/send it back to Thailand for repair
Alan ***********
I bought my Macbook Air in Finland and was told that the warranty was worldwide? Best to check with Apple but seems you get a different answer different places ....
Chris ****
@Dave *******
applies with Apple care too?Dave ********
@Samurais ***********
I should imagine so, but sending an email to Apple should verify it
Jai ******
If you on tourist visa then only get VAT refund
Richard ***********
I checked the prices on both US and Thai Apple store websites just now and the Thai store price is cheaper $2,693.59. US store $2,790.00
Chris ****
Apple is cheaper buying is US and bringing to Thailand for personal use.
Todd *********
@Samurais ***********
that’s not correct. Buy Apple in Thailand over USA. Cheaper 
Justin ******
OP@Todd ********
thank you guys for your helpChris ****
Wait - stand corrected
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Justin ******
OP@Samurais ***********
yes, this is the site that i checked firstChris ****
@Todd ********
and ironically I am in the rocket sciences.Todd *********
@Samurais ***********
not rocket science. Also account for currency fluctuations do not alter local pricing in the short term. Chris ****
@Todd ********
nope
Benjamin ******
@Samurais ***********
Is it? It depends if you live in a state with sales tax. Remember, the prices listed on their web site is before sales tax, with can vary between 0 to 10%. Chris ****
@Benjamin *****
yes
Pinky *****************
Only con is if you purchased it in state it will be difficult to sell in Thai unless a foreigner buys it from you, they always prefer keyboard with Thai inscription, couldn’t sell mine after taking it to multiple shops, aside that nothing else.
George *********
Bought the Apple Watch 6 earlier this year in Bangkok and was given a Vat form. When I flew out, got several hundred baht back. Was roughly the same cost if I purchased in the states.
Alastair ********************
Benefits:
Dual language keyboard if you want it.
Exchange rate may be in your favour depending on your currency but generally Apple cost the same globally.
Apple will issue you with a VAT claim form which you'll obviously need to use at the airport - have passport details with you at time of purchase. Have the MacBook in your possession when claiming the VAT as it will be inspected (landside) before you go through security and claim your VAT (airside).
Dual language keyboard if you want it.
Exchange rate may be in your favour depending on your currency but generally Apple cost the same globally.
Apple will issue you with a VAT claim form which you'll obviously need to use at the airport - have passport details with you at time of purchase. Have the MacBook in your possession when claiming the VAT as it will be inspected (landside) before you go through security and claim your VAT (airside).
Brian ********
Apple use to off a special price for students
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