Claim GST Refunds in Singapore A Smart Shopping Guide from Sandpiper Hotels

Singapore is a paradise for shoppers, and if you're visiting from overseas, there's a bonus: you can get a refund on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) for eligible purchases. That’s right, your shopping spree can come with a cashback twist, thanks to the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS). Whether you're staying at Sandpiper Hotels or exploring the city, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to shop smart and save.

Claim GST Refund, Singapore

What Is the Tourist Refund Scheme?

The TRS allows tourists to claim a refund on the 9% GST paid on goods purchased from participating retailers in Singapore. The catch? You must take the goods out of the country via Changi Airport or Seletar Airport, and the purchases must meet certain criteria.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the GST refund, you must:

• Be 16 years or older

• Not be a Singapore citizen or permanent resident

• Not hold a work pass, student pass, or long-term visit pass

• Spend at least SGD 100 (can be across up to 3 same-day receipts from the same retailer)

• Present your original passport at the time of purchase

  
  

How to Claim Your Refund

Claiming your refund is surprisingly easy. Here's how:

1. Shop at eTRS-participating retailers: These stores will tag your purchase to your passport or issue an eTRS ticket.

2. Head to the airport early: Arrive at least 2–3 hours before your flight to allow time for the refund process.

3. Use the eTRS self-help kiosks: Located at Changi and Seletar airports, these kiosks let you scan your passport and retrieve your purchase records.

4. Submit your claim: You may be asked to present your goods for inspection, so keep them in your carry-on.

5. Choose your refund method: Options include cash, credit card, Alipay, or WeChat Pay.

   
   

What’s Not Refundable?

Not all purchases qualify. You won’t be able to claim GST refunds on:

• Services (e.g., hotel stays, entertainment)

• Consumed goods (like food or beverages)

• Business purchases

• Freight-exported items

  
  

Where to Shop Near Sandpiper Hotel ?

Staying at Sandpiper Hotels puts you in the heart of Singapore, with easy access to several top-tier shopping malls and retail centers that support the TRS. Here are six nearby spots where you can shop and claim your GST refund:

Mustafa Centre

1. Mustafa Centre

📍 145 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore 207704

Just a short walk from Sandpiper Hotel

Mustafa Centre is a 24-hour mega department store offering everything from electronics and fashion to groceries and gold. It’s a favourite among budget-conscious travellers and supports the TRS as an Independent Retailer (IR).

ION Orchard, Singapore

2. ION Orchard

📍 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801

A luxury shopping destination with over 300 brands, ION Orchard supports eTRS across many of its retailers. From designer fashion to electronics and beauty, it’s a must-visit for tourists looking to splurge and save.

Takashimaya Shopping Centre, Singapore

3. Takashimaya Shopping Centre

📍 391 Orchard Rd, Singapore 238872

Located in Ngee Ann City, Takashimaya offers a wide range of international brands and specialty stores. Tourists can apply for GST refunds at the Global Tax Free Counter on Level 3, making it a convenient and rewarding shopping experience.

Bugis Junction

4. Bugis Junction

📍 200 Victoria St, Singapore 188021

A trendy mall with fashion retailers, lifestyle stores, and dining options, Bugis Junction is directly connected to Bugis MRT and supports eTRS at many of its outlets. It’s a great spot for mid-range shopping and local finds.

Marina Bay Link Mall

5. Marina Bay Link Mall

📍 8A Marina Blvd, Singapore 018984

This sleek, contemporary mall offers a mix of retail and dining options. Many stores here participate in the eTRS, making it a convenient spot for tourists to shop and save.

Pro Tips for Sandpiper Guests

• Ask the concierge: The Sandpiper Hotels team can help you identify eTRS-participating stores and assist with receipt organization.

  
  

• Keep your receipts safe: You’ll need them to process your refund at the airport.

  
  

• Don’t pack your purchases: Keep them in your carry-on in case customs wants to inspect them.

Final Thoughts

Shopping in Singapore is more than just a pastime, it’s a rewarding experience, especially when you know how to claim your GST refund. By staying at Sandpiper Hotels, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the city’s best malls, from the luxury of ION Orchard and Takashimaya to the unbeatable value at Mustafa Centre and Bugis Junction. So go ahead, indulge a little and enjoy the bonus of getting some of your money back before you fly home.