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    Are small online orders from outside the EU tax-free in Finland?

    What changed in 2021 and why even cheap items are taxed.

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    Short answer

    Before July 2021, goods worth up to 22 euros could come from outside the EU without VAT. The Finnish Government explained that the law change removed this exemption from 1 July 2021, so VAT is now paid on every consignment. Since 1 July 2026 a customs duty of 3 euros per goods item also applies to parcels up to 150 euros, and since 1 November 2026 a handling fee of 2 euros per item.

    Practical: communication, money, services

    Why

    1. The Finnish Government said VAT would be charged on consignments up to 22 euros from July 2021.
    2. MTV Uutiset reported that the 22 euro limit ended when the EU VAT reform took effect.
    3. Finnish Customs explains the 3 euro duty that started on 1 July 2026.

    Details

    Customs says the date the goods are cleared decides the charges, not the date the parcel was sent.

    Tip

    Add VAT, duty and fees to the price before you compare a foreign shop with a Finnish one.

    What may differ

    Gifts between private persons still have a separate 45 euro limit.

    Common misconception

    Anything under 22 euros comes tax-free.

    What actually happens

    That limit ended in July 2021. All orders owe VAT.

    People also ask

    • Is there customs duty on online orders from outside the EU?
    • What is IOSS?
    • What is the 2 euro handling fee on parcels?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Customs rules for online purchases are changing in stages, so check Finnish Customs before you order.

    Practical: communication, money, services
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