27-Mar-2007
Last September 25th the Federal Government announced the cancellation of the Canadian Visitor Rebate Program, effective April 1, 2007. Since 1991 this program has allowed International visitors to Canada to obtain a GST/HST rebate of their purchases and accommodations while visiting our country.
The Visitor Rebate Program is a tourist incentive program similar to others offered in countries with a GST-type tax. Currently 27 countries in the European Union, Australia, Israel, Singapore and Mexico (just launching) have a Visitor Rebate Program. This is an increasing trend in global tourism.
Since the announcement of the cancellation, Premier Tax Free has worked to modify the Federal Government’s decision. We have worked together with Hotel, Retail and Tourism Industry associations for options to the potential cancellation, such as the reinstatement of a user-pay visitor rebate program, as is similar to the European or Australian models.
When the 2007 Budget was approved by Parliament on March 27th, the cancellation of the VRP became a reality. The Federal Government has elected instead to offer a tour and convention program however the legislation has not yet been written for this program.
Visitors leaving Canada on/or before March 31, 2007 have until March 31, 2008 to claim a refund of GST paid on eligible goods and accommodation.
The Ontario PST continues to be refundable for all those eligible purchases made by visitors to the Province of Ontario.
ENDS
For more information contact:
Mr. Juan Antonio Povea, Group Director (North America)
Telephone: +1 905270 2702