Tax Refund Info

Cosmetic Surgery Tax Refund Guide

VAT Refund for Foreign Patients Undergoing Cosmetic Surgery

SECTION 01.

How to Claim VAT Refund
for
Cosmetic Surgery
in Korea

While most general medical services in Korea are exempt from VAT, cosmetic surgery procedures are subject to VAT. However, a system is in place that allows foreign patients to claim a VAT refund if they have paid VAT on cosmetic medical services.

  • 1

    Cosmetic Surgery

  • 2

    Ask for tax refund

  • 3

    Receive refund

  • 4

    Depart Korea

Who Can Apply for a VAT Refund?
01.

Non-residents in Korea

- Foreign tourists

Length of stay: less than six months

- Koreans living abroad

Must have lived abroad for at least two years

Length of stay in Korea: less than three months

02.

Must depart Korea within three months of undergoing cosmetic surgery.

VAT Refund Process
1

Visit the Medical Institution

Confirm if the medical institution is eligible for VAT refunds.

Ensure the medical service is subject to VAT refund.

2

Receive the Certificate of Sale of Medical Service After Payment

Ensure the location of VAT refund service operators is known when paying for the service.

3

Visit Refund Points to Obtain the Refund

At airports, ports, or downtown locations (available refund options: cash, credit card, or digital cash).

Refund Locations
  • Airports
    Incheon International Airport
    Gimpo International Airport
    Gimhae International Airport
    Daegu International Airport
    Cheongju International Airport
    Muan International Airport
    Yangyang International Airport
    Jeju International Airport
  • Port
    Incheonhang Port 1 and 2
    Gundanhang Port
    Busanhang Port
    Jejuhang Port
  • Downtown
    Varies depending on the tax-refunding service operators
    Check the operators at the medical institution to confirm their locations

Even Easier with Meditous!

When you book through Meditous, we take care of all the details, including the VAT refund process.

We offer a convenient one-stop service, ensuring a smooth experience from selecting the medical institution to receiving your refund, without any hassle.