Written by Ruqin
July 30, 2026

Today, let’s take a break from talking about sightseeing.

Instead, let’s talk about something that can leave a little more money in your wallet.

I have seen this happen many times. Travelers spend a wonderful afternoon shopping in Shanghai. They leave the mall carrying bags from their favorite brands, feeling pleased with their purchases. Then, a few days later, they arrive at the airport, stand in front of the tax refund counter, and suddenly have no idea what to do.

Fortunately, getting a tax refund in Shanghai is not difficult once you know the process.

So, let me walk you through it step by step. A little preparation before you leave the city can put money back where it belongs—in your pocket.

1. Who Can Get a Tax Refund? The Rules Are Easier Than You Think

The first question I hear is always the same.

“Do I need to spend a lot before I can get a tax refund?”

Actually, the answer is no.

The minimum purchase is now RMB 200, much lower than it used to be. That means a backpack, a couple of T-shirts, or a skincare set may already qualify.

Meanwhile, the maximum refundable purchase amount is very generous, so most travelers will never come close to the limit.

There are, however, a few rules you should keep in mind.

First, your purchases must come from the same tax refund store on the same day. If you spend RMB 100 in three different shops along Nanjing Road, those receipts cannot be combined.

Next, keep your purchases unused.

It can be tempting to wear your new jacket or carry your new handbag right away. However, tax refund goods should remain new until they are inspected if required.

Timing also matters.

From the day the store issues your tax refund form, you have 28 days to leave China. Miss that deadline, and you lose your refund.

Finally, this program is for short-term overseas visitors.

As long as you have stayed in mainland China for no more than 183 days, you will usually meet this requirement without any trouble.

Once you understand these rules, the rest of the process becomes much easier. Most travelers qualify without realizing it.

2. What Can You Claim a Tax Refund On?

The good news is that most things you buy while shopping in Shanghai qualify for a tax refund.

If you spend an afternoon exploring Nanjing Road or Huaihai Road, chances are most of your shopping bags will contain eligible items.

There are a few exceptions, however.

Items such as tobacco, alcohol, food, gold and silver jewelry, cars, motorcycles, and products that cannot legally leave China are not eligible. So, as delicious as Shanghai’s pan-fried buns are, they will not earn you a tax refund.

Meanwhile, clothing, shoes, handbags, accessories, cosmetics, and souvenirs are usually all good choices.

Luxury handbags are among the most common tax refund purchases. However, everyday fashion, shoes, and gifts also qualify and are just as popular with visitors.

One change I particularly like is the addition of more traditional Chinese products.

Now you can often claim a refund on items like Chinese tea, Jingdezhen porcelain, and traditional Chinese medicinal products. If you bring home a tea set from Yuyuan or a tin of Longjing tea from Huaihai Road, those purchases may also be eligible.

Before you pay, take one quick look around the store.

If you see the “Tax Free” sign, you are in the right place. That small sticker can make your shopping a little more rewarding.

3. Where Do You Claim Your Tax Refund?

Getting a tax refund in Shanghai happens in two stages.

The first starts when you shop. The second finishes when you leave China.

While shopping, look for stores displaying the “Tax Free” or “Departure Tax Refund” sign. Shanghai now has more than 2,400 participating stores, so you will find them in most major shopping areas.

When you pay, show your passport and tell the cashier that you would like a tax refund.

Then collect two important documents: your tax refund application form and your sales invoice. Keep them somewhere safe. You will need both again at the airport or port.

Later, complete the final steps when you leave China.

Shanghai currently offers tax refund services at five departure points: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (Terminals 1 and 2), Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (Terminal 1), Shanghai Wusongkou International Cruise Terminal, Shanghai Port International Cruise Terminal, and the Shanghai Eastern Hub International Business Cooperation Zone.

If you are flying from Pudong Airport, the tax refund counter is in the public departure hall of Terminal 2, near Island F.

Meanwhile, if you leave through Hongqiao Airport Terminal 1, pass through security first. Then turn right, walk about 30 meters, turn right again, and continue for another 150 meters. You will find the counter opposite Gate T09.

Finding the counter is usually the easy part.

Remembering your passport and paperwork is what really makes the process smooth.

4. How to Claim Your Tax Refund: Three Simple Steps

The process is easier than many travelers expect.

I think of it in three simple steps: shop, customs, and refund.

First, ask for the tax refund documents when you pay. Show your passport, and the cashier will prepare your Tax Refund Application Form and sales invoice. Then keep both documents with your purchases.

Next, visit the customs tax refund counter before checking your luggage. Bring your passport, your purchases, the tax refund form, and the invoice. Customs may inspect the goods and compare them with your paperwork.

Meanwhile, not every purchase is checked. Refunds under RMB 10,000 are usually inspected on a random basis. However, if your purchase is selected, or the amount exceeds RMB 10,000, you will need to show the actual items.

The process has also become faster. At Pudong Airport, self-service inspection machines can finish many checks in about 10 seconds. They also provide English translation. Meanwhile, electronic invoices are now accepted in many cases, so missing a paper invoice is less stressful.

Finally, take the approved documents to the tax refund counter inside the departure area. After the service fee, you usually receive about 9% of your purchase value back. For refunds up to RMB 20,000, you can choose cash, a bank transfer, or Alipay. Larger refunds are paid by bank transfer.

5. Skip the Airport Queue with Instant Tax Refunds

If you would rather spend less time at the airport, Shanghai offers a more convenient option.

It is called “Buy Now, Refund Now,” or an instant tax refund.

Instead of waiting until departure, you receive your refund shortly after shopping.

I like this option because it removes one more thing from the airport checklist.

Meanwhile, many major shopping malls now offer this service. Places like Plaza 66 and HKRI Taikoo Hui have centralized refund counters. After shopping at participating stores, simply take your passport, purchases, and paperwork to the mall’s refund counter.

Then you can receive your refund on the spot.

Even better, some hotels now offer the same service. If you stay at participating hotels, such as Jin Jiang Hotel or Shanghai Hotel, you may be able to complete the refund process there. Later, when you leave China, customs only needs to verify your purchases.

There is, however, one important requirement.

You must provide a credit card for pre-authorization. This serves as a guarantee until you leave China. If you do not depart within 28 days, the refunded amount will be charged back to your card.

If your shopping plans include several stores, this option can save both time and stress. It also makes your last day in Shanghai feel much more relaxed.

6. A Few Tips Before You Leave

A little planning can make the tax refund process much smoother.

First, arrive at the airport a bit earlier than usual. I recommend allowing an extra 45 to 60 minutes. Most refunds are quick. However, the counters can become busy during peak travel times.

Next, keep your paperwork together.

Many tax refund records are now available electronically. Even so, I still prefer keeping the application form and invoice until the refund is complete.

Meanwhile, keep your purchases with you.

The goods must travel with you, either in your carry-on or checked luggage. You cannot ask someone else to take them out of China for you.

There is also good news if you have shopped in more than one city.

For example, you can buy eligible items in Beijing and still claim your tax refund when you depart from Shanghai.

Finally, do not worry if you are unsure where to go.

Shanghai provides a Departure Tax Refund Service Map at airports and major shopping districts. You can also use the official mobile service platform, available in 14 languages, to find refund locations and check your refund status.

Once you know where to go, the process feels much less intimidating. Most travelers find it easier than they expected.

A Note from Ruqin

That’s everything you need to know about claiming a tax refund in Shanghai.

The rules are actually simpler than they first appear.

Just remember three things. Spend at least RMB 200, leave China within 28 days, and keep your passport, sales invoice, and Tax Refund Application Form together.

Then you can focus on the fun part.

Shanghai is one of my favorite cities for shopping. One day you might discover a small designer boutique. Next, you could find the perfect tea set or a handmade souvenir. Meanwhile, knowing you can claim a tax refund makes those purchases feel even more worthwhile.

I hope this How to Claim a Tax Refund in Shanghai guide helps you shop with a little more confidence and a little less stress.

I’m Ruqin. Thanks for reading, and I’ll see you in the next guide.

About the Author

 Ruqin is the founder of Ruqintravel.com and has spent more than four decades working in China’s travel industry. Drawing on hands-on experience in cities like Beijing and Hangzhou, he personally researches and updates each guide to help international travelers navigate China with confidence.

Further Reading

How to get tax refund in Beijing for foreign tourists
Best Places to Shop in Shanghai – A Guide for First-Time Visitors
What to Buy in Shanghai: Best Souvenirs, Gifts & Snacks|
7 Common Mistakes to Avoid on Your First Trip to Shanghai