VAT Refund for Skin Treatments in Korea (2026 Update)
For years, foreign patients could reclaim VAT on cosmetic and dermatology procedures in Korea. That scheme has now ended. Here’s what it means for your budget.
The special VAT refund that let foreign patients reclaim the 10% VAT on cosmetic and dermatological procedures expired at the end of 2025 and was not renewed. For treatments in 2026, you should not expect a VAT refund at the clinic or the airport. Instead, ask for a quote that clearly states whether VAT is already included.
What changed
- Before: foreign patients could reclaim the 10% VAT on eligible cosmetic and dermatology treatments, such as lifting, rejuvenation and fat-dissolving injections.
- Announcement: in July 2025 the Ministry of Economy and Finance announced the scheme would be discontinued.
- Now: the National Assembly did not extend it in December 2025, so it ended at the end of 2025.
What it means for you
- Don’t include a VAT refund in your treatment budget.
- Compare clinics on a VAT-inclusive basis so quotes are like-for-like.
- Ignore old blog posts that promise a cosmetic-treatment refund in 2026.
Is VAT included in clinic prices?
Cosmetic procedures in Korea are subject to 10% VAT, while treatment of illness generally isn’t. Some clinics show prices including VAT, others before VAT. At YAAN Clinic, ask your coordinator to confirm the VAT-inclusive total for your plan before you pay. See understanding Korean prices.
Shopping tax refunds still exist
The ending of the medical VAT refund doesn’t affect tax-free shopping for goods at participating stores. That is a separate system for retail purchases, not clinic treatments.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners still get a VAT refund on skin treatments in Korea?
No. The special refund for foreign patients’ cosmetic and dermatology procedures ended at the end of 2025 and was not renewed for 2026.
How much was the VAT refund?
It covered the 10% VAT, although after refund-operator commissions patients typically received a little less than the full 10%.
Do YAAN Clinic prices include VAT?
Ask your coordinator to confirm the VAT-inclusive total for your treatment plan; it will be shown on your written quote before you pay.
Keep reading
Questions before you book?
Message our English-speaking coordinator with your dates and goals. A doctor reviews your case and you get a written price before you fly.
WhatsApp +82-10-5308-0499 Online consultation formSources: Korea JoongAng Daily on the end of the VAT refund programme; Korea Biomedical Review on its abolition. Tax rules can change — check the latest information before travelling. Not tax advice.
