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    What is the VAT rate in Finland?

    The three VAT rates and which goods and services they cover.

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    Short answer

    Finland has three VAT rates in 2026. The general rate of 25.5% covers most goods and services, including alcohol in restaurants. The reduced rate of 13.5% applies to food, restaurant meals, accommodation, medicines, books and passenger transport. Newspapers and magazines have 10%. VAT is always included in the prices shown to consumers.

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    Why

    1. The Ministry of Finance lists 25.5% as the general VAT rate and 13.5% as the reduced rate.
    2. The Finnish Tax Administration says the reduced 14% rate fell to 13.5% on 1 January 2026.
    3. The Taxpayers Association of Finland notes that alcoholic drinks and tobacco are excluded from the reduced restaurant rate.

    Details

    The general rate has been 25.5% since 1 September 2024. On a restaurant bill, food and soft drinks are taxed at 13.5% and beer or wine at 25.5%.

    Tip

    Visitors living outside the EU can get VAT back on goods bought for export, if the purchase from one shop is at least 40 euros.

    What may differ

    Åland is outside the EU VAT area, so tax-free sales and VAT rules work differently there.

    Common misconception

    Prices in Finnish shops are shown without VAT, like in the USA.

    What actually happens

    Consumer prices in Finland always include VAT. The price on the shelf is the price you pay.

    People also ask

    • What is VAT on food in Finland?
    • Is VAT included in prices in Finland?
    • What is the VAT on hotels in Finland?

    Sources

    This answer is for reference only. Prices and taxes change, so check the official sources before you plan your budget.

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