Most purchases in British Columbia are subject to sales tax totaling 14% of the purchase price. The provincial sales tax (PST) of 7% applies to retail purchases and leases with the exception of liquor, which is taxed at 10%. Some items, including groceries, restaurant meals, children's clothing and books, are PST exempt. The federal Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 6% is applicable to most purchased goods and services regardless of whether the buyer is a resident of Canada or a visitor.

Hotel and Room Tax:
Except for campgrounds and houseboats, tourist accommodation rates quoted are subject to an 8% provincial hotel and motel room tax. Where approved, an additional 2% tourism tax is levied by the local municipal government. GST (7%) is also applied.

How to make a claim -

Duty Free Shops - Claims may be made by visitors by submitting receipts, with a one-page form, at participating duty free shops, where they will receive an instant cash rebate of up to $500 in Canadian funds.

Revenue Canada – Mail your receipts, along with the application form to: Revenue Canada Visitors Rebate Program, Summerside Tax Centre, Summerside, PEI C1N 6C6

If you don’t have an application form, send an e-mail to gstrebate@vcmbc.com and we’ll send one in the mail.

For more information or assistance please call the following numbers: From outside Canada (902) 432-5608. From inside Canada 1-800-66VISIT (1-800-668-4748)