VAT?

Question

I sold an item from USA to someone in Norway. They had to pay 25% VAT and now messaged me stating they have to pay an additional25% VAT to get the item. As the seller, I have no idea how VAT's work and even as a buyer I have never had to pay. Buyer asked me to contact eBay to see why he has to pay twice, and so much. I told him I would reach out, but suggested he do the same. Anything I can do to help this nice international buyer out???

ferncliff-39 · Answer

@mneadle

There have been problems in the past with Norway buyers being charged twice for VAT:

See if anything in these posts help your buyer - there is a link to request a refund to start.

Here: https://community.ebay.com/t5/Payments/VAT-payment-twice-on-everything-shipped-to-Norway-PART-2/m-p/35283003

and here: https://community.ebay.com/t5/Payments/Paid-VAT-and-Customs-fee-twice/m-p/35049848

@devon@ebay - any updates on this Norway VAT issue - see your reply on 9/25/2025 1st post

disneyshopper · Answer

VAT is Value Added Tax, which most countries charge the buyer. Those of use do not have a VAT, but there is sales tax on the item based on the state the item is shipped to. I see that you are using the ebay International Shipping program. Was that used to ship the item to your international buyer? I know that international shipping + customs and duties are collected by ebay, but not sure about VAT. I suggest contacting ebay via social media. Those folks are more knowledgable than the front line reps that manage the phones.

Contact customer service by sending a PRIVATE message on social media. Customer service verifies your identity before responding.

https://x.com/askebay

https://www.facebook.com/ebay

https://www.instagram.com/ebayforsellers/

6am to 6pm PST