TaxCalcBase

Free Financial Calculators

VAT Rates by Country

A complete reference of standard and reduced VAT/GST rates worldwide. Click any country to use its pre-configured VAT calculator.

CountryStandard RateReduced Rates
United Kingdom20.0%5.0%, 0.0%
Germany19.0%7.0%
France20.0%10.0%, 5.5%, 2.1%
Italy22.0%10.0%, 5.0%, 4.0%
Spain21.0%10.0%, 4.0%
Netherlands21.0%9.0%
Belgium21.0%12.0%, 6.0%
Austria20.0%13.0%, 10.0%
Portugal23.0%13.0%, 6.0%
Ireland23.0%13.5%, 9.0%, 4.8%
Sweden25.0%12.0%, 6.0%
Denmark25.0%—
Norway25.0%15.0%, 12.0%
Finland25.5%14.0%, 10.0%
Poland23.0%8.0%, 5.0%
Switzerland8.1%3.8%, 2.6%
Canada5.0%—
Australia10.0%—
New Zealand15.0%—
Japan10.0%8.0%
South Korea10.0%—
India18.0%12.0%, 5.0%, 0.0%
Singapore9.0%—
South Africa15.0%—
Brazil17.0%12.0%, 7.0%
Mexico16.0%—
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Understanding Global VAT Rates

Value Added Tax is the most widespread form of consumption tax in the world, used by more than 170 countries to generate government revenue. Standard rates typically range from 5% in low-tax jurisdictions such as Canada and Japan to 25% or more in Scandinavian nations like Sweden, Denmark, and Norway. The European Union requires member states to maintain a minimum standard rate of 15%, though most set theirs considerably higher.

Many countries apply one or more reduced rates to categories of goods deemed essential. Groceries, pharmaceuticals, books, and public transportation often qualify for lower rates or zero-rating, meaning VAT is technically applied at 0% but the seller can still reclaim input VAT. Certain services such as healthcare and education may be exempt from VAT entirely, which means no VAT is charged and no input VAT can be recovered.

For businesses operating internationally, keeping track of the correct VAT rate for each jurisdiction is critical. Incorrect invoicing can lead to penalties, delayed refunds, or compliance issues. This reference table is updated to reflect current standard and reduced rates so you can quickly verify the rate that applies to your transactions. Click on any country to access a dedicated VAT calculator pre-configured with that nation's standard rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between VAT and GST?
VAT and GST are both consumption taxes applied to goods and services. The main difference is in name only – countries like the UK and EU members call it VAT, while countries like Australia, Canada, India, and New Zealand use the term GST. The underlying mechanism of taxing value added at each production stage is the same.
Why do VAT rates differ between countries?
Each country sets its own VAT rate based on fiscal policy, government revenue needs, and economic conditions. Higher rates generate more tax revenue but can reduce consumer spending. Many countries also apply reduced rates to essential goods like food, medicine, and public transport to lessen the burden on lower-income households.
What are reduced VAT rates?
Reduced VAT rates are lower rates applied to specific categories of goods and services, such as food, books, medical supplies, or public transportation. Countries use reduced rates to make essentials more affordable. Some items may even be zero-rated, meaning VAT applies at 0%, or fully exempt from VAT altogether.
How often do VAT rates change?
VAT rates can change whenever a government decides to adjust its tax policy, though major changes are relatively infrequent. Temporary rate reductions sometimes occur during economic downturns. It is a good practice to check the current rate with your national tax authority before filing returns or issuing invoices.