Can medical tourists claim GST refund for medical services in Singapore?

by Thomas Lau
(Kuching)

Dear Sir,

I am a Malaysian. Recently i brought my son to Raffles Hospital to do a nose operation. On the bill is stated GST of about 500 + singapore dollars. Are we allowed to claim back this tax?

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Can medical tourists claim GST refund for medical services in Singapore?

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Dec 15, 2008

GST Refund in Singapore - Some Conditions
by: Gabriel Tan

Hi Thomas

I'm afraid you cannot claim GST refund on medical services in Singapore.

Several conditions must be met before a visitor to Singapore can claim GST refund. 2 such conditions are:

1. The visitor must have bought the goods at a participating outlet.

2. The (physical) goods have to be presented for inspection at the airport and taken out of Singapore.

However, medical treatments are considered as services 'consumed' in Singapore. It is similar to a person eating dinner in a Singapore restaurant. He/She cannot get a refund for the taxes paid on his/her dinner.

We wish your son a speedy recovery and good health.

Dec 15, 2008

the rules and regulation
by: Jeremy

HI Thomas :)

I know how you feel. Any way, my mom also goes to Raffles for check up and everything will cost a few thousand. But we can't claim back the GST. cause operation is considered as a service. We can't claim GST refund on service.

But Thomas if the doctor got give medicine and if the medicine cost more than $100+ and then u can claim back the GST.

Hope ur son get well soon ;)

Dec 15, 2008

Thanks for the speedy reply
by: Thomas

Dear Gabriel & Jeremy,

Thanks for the quick response. I get a clearer picture now.

Anyway, I also looked up the website of Singapore Customs. So, it seems GST refunds mostly apply to goods (minimum $100) bought in Singapore & brought out of Singapore through Changi Airport or Seletar Airport. Readers can also refer to Singapore Customs for more details. There are certain procedures to be followed.

My son is recovering now. Thanks for the concern.
Thomas

Jun 21, 2009

Goverment Hospitals
by: Lia

How about the goverment/ public hospitals such as NUH or general hospital? Could the GST of the treatment be claimed for non-residents/foreigners?

Jun 21, 2009

No GST Refund for All Types Of Service in Singapore
by: Gabriel Tan

Hi Lia

There is also no GST refund for medical treatment at government hospitals in Singapore - nor for all types of services used in Singapore, e.g. haircuts, massages, skin cleansing, and you name it.

Related:

How to claim GST Refund in Singapore

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