GST Refund in Singapore 2025, A Guide for Filipino Travellers

Singapore is a favourite holiday spot for many Filipinos. From shopping sprees along Orchard Road to luxury finds at Marina Bay Sands, it is easy to spend a little extra. The good news is that you can claim back part of the Goods and Services Tax, or GST, which is currently nine percent.

This is possible through the Tourist Refund Scheme, a programme that lets visitors get a tax refund on eligible purchases. If you are flying back to the Philippines from Singapore, this guide will walk you through the updated 2025 process so you can enjoy tax free shopping and bring home more savings.

Also read: First Time Flying Abroad: Essential Travel Guide for Filipinos

What is the GST in Singapore?

The GST is a nine percent consumption tax applied to most goods and services in Singapore. It increased from eight percent in 2024 and remains at nine percent this 2025. Tourists can claim back a portion of this tax if they shop at participating stores and follow the refund process.

Who Can Claim the GST Refund?

Filipino travellers are eligible for the Tourist Refund Scheme if they:

• Are at least 16 years old.

• Are not Singapore citizens or permanent residents.

• Do not hold student passes, work permits, or long term visas.

• Are not airline crew on duty.

• Depart from Changi Airport or Seletar Airport.

• Carry their purchased goods out of Singapore within two months of buying them.

• Spend at least 100 Singapore dollars in one shop. You can combine up to three same day receipts from the same store to reach this amount.

Purchases that do not qualify

Not everything can be refunded. Hotel stays, food or drinks consumed in Singapore, services like spa treatments, and freight shipped goods are not part of the scheme.

How to Shop for Tax Free Items

When shopping, look for stores that display the Tax Free or TRS logo. At checkout, present your passport and electronic Visit Pass. The shop will then create an electronic Tourist Refund Scheme (eTRS) transaction linked to your passport. Keep your original receipts with you, as you might need to show them later at the airport.

You can also track your refund claims through the official eTRS Singapore mobile app.

How to Claim Your Refund at Changi or Seletar

For checked luggage purchases

Before checking in, go to the eTRS kiosk in the Departure Check in Hall. Scan your passport to validate your purchases, then check in your bags.

For carry on purchases

After immigration, head to the eTRS kiosks in the Departure Transit Lounge to validate your purchases.

If customs requests an inspection

Sometimes customs officers may need to see your goods. If this happens, present your items along with your receipts, boarding pass, and passport at the Customs Inspection Counter.

Refund Options for 2025

After validation, you can choose how to receive your refund:

• Credit card, refunded within about ten days.

• Alipay, credited almost instantly.

• Cash in Singapore dollars, available only at Changi Airport’s Cash Refund Counter.

Remember, you will not get the full nine percent back. A handling fee will be deducted, and credit card refunds may have currency conversion costs.

Also read: Japan Multiple Entry Tourist Visa Guide for Filipinos

Tips for Filipino Travellers

• Arrive at the airport early. The process can take time, especially at Changi where many tourists are also claiming refunds.

• Keep receipts and goods ready in case customs officers ask to inspect them.

• Choose credit card or Alipay refunds for convenience and safety.

• Always check official updates from the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore or Singapore Customs before travelling.

Why It Matters

Even if you do not get the full nine percent, most travellers still save about seven to eight percent of their shopping spend. That can go a long way when you are flying back to Manila, Cebu, or Davao with an extra bag of pasalubong for family and friends.

Final Thoughts

Shopping in Singapore can be pricey, but claiming a GST refund makes it more rewarding. Filipino travellers should always take advantage of the Tourist Refund Scheme before leaving the country. A few minutes at the airport could mean extra cash to enjoy your next holiday, or even another round of Jollibee once you land back home.