How to claim a VAT refund at BIA?

Present your passport, original tax invoices, and the purchased goods to the TVRS (Tourist VAT Refund Scheme) customs counter at Bandaranaike International Airport before you check in your luggage. These items should be bought from authorised Sri Lankan retailers that display the official VAT Refund logo.

Your total value of eligible purchases must exceed LKR 50,000, and everything needs to be purchased within 60 days of your departure. Once customs officers physically inspect the goods and then stamp your invoices, you should move to the Bank of Ceylon counter in the transit lounge to claim the cash refund.