TaxSavvySG

Claiming import GST

We imported goods and paid GST at customs. Can we claim it?

The situation

GST paid on imports can be claimed as input tax by a GST-registered importer, subject to normal rules.

The law

  • Goods and Services Tax Act 1993 and GST (General) Regulations: GST return (GST F5) and payment within one month after each accounting period

What it means for you

The import permit in your company's name is the main evidence. If a freight forwarder imported in their own name, your claim may fail. Schemes such as the Major Exporter Scheme can suspend GST on imports for qualifying businesses.

What to do

  1. Get import permits in your company's name.
  2. Match them to the accounting period.
  3. Claim the GST in the return.
  4. Check import GST suspension schemes.

We can do this for youQuarterly GST F5 returns: SGD 350

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