From July 1, you'll pay VAT on every purchase from web shops outside the EU—including Shein, Wish, AliExpress, and UK stores. The majority of online shoppers remain unaware of these changes.
Starting July 1, VAT applies to all purchases from web shops outside the European Union, even those under €22. These updates to EU VAT rules aim to create fairer competition. A Customs-commissioned poll shows 52% of Dutch shoppers who bought from non-EU sites in the past six months are unaware. Customs is launching a campaign to inform consumers and prevent unexpected costs.
Previously, non-EU sellers skipped VAT on packages up to €22, undercutting EU competitors. The new rules change that for a level playing field.
Director-General of Customs Nanette van Schelven emphasizes: “Our Internet purchases campaign highlights extra costs from non-EU web shops. From July 1, VAT—21% typically—applies to buys under €22. Visit www.douane.nl/internetaankopen for details on rules and costs.”
China leads, with 90.6% of respondents recently shopping at sites like Shein, AliExpress, or Wish. UK shops follow at 14% (post-Brexit), and the US at 12.3%, especially popular among 16-17-year-olds (24.3%).
Before checking out from a non-EU site, confirm if VAT is included. If not, you'll pay it later via your postal or parcel service, which notifies Customs. Carriers often add clearance fees atop the VAT. For orders over €150, expect duties up to 12%.
Learn more at www.douane.nl/internetaankopen or ask the virtual assistant.
Shein sources from China but uses EU warehouses (e.g., Germany), dodging extra VAT for many orders and speeding delivery. Still, import levies to EU sites may raise prices soon.
About the Poll
Conducted by PanelWizard (April 2-12, 2021) for Customs. Surveyed 1,116 respondents aged 16+ with recent non-EU web shop purchases.
