Previous Story
Tax-free buys for Filipinos overseas
|
Posted on Mar 25 1999
Overseas Filipino Workers who have an uninterrupted stay abroad for more than six months are entitled to duty and tax free privileges upon their return to the Philippines.
Based on the Primer published in the Philippines which answers the many questions asked by returning Filipinos, OFWs are allowed to bring in P10,000 worth of used home appliances exempted from duty and tax free dues.
This is on top of the personal effects that the group can also avail in bringing used appliances to the country likewise valued at not more than P10,000.
Family members of returning OFWs can also avail of this privilege but these goods should not be sold, bartered or traded.
Although all passengers coming in from abroad can avail of the duty free shopping within 48 hours upon arrival, OFWs are given $2,000 maximum purchase.
Other passengers are only allowed up to $1,000 maximum purchase.
However, an OFW can avail of this duty free shopping privilege only once a year. In the case, the worker returns again to the Philippines within the year, the individual will be considered as regular shopper availing of the $1,000 maximum purchase.
A tourist can purchase electronics and home appliances but shall be subjected to payment of duties and taxes.
Purchases on cigarettes are limited to two reams and only two bottles of liquor, the primer said.
