Effective from 19 August 2012, the Electronic Tourist Refund Scheme (eTRS) will fully replace the paper refund form system. By connecting multiple Central Refund Agencies and retailers on a single platform, eTRS enhances the tourists' experience by offering a hassle-free shopping experience and a consistent GST refund claim process.
From Jan 2013, eTRS will also apply to goods brought out of Singapore on international cruise via Singapore Cruise Centre at Harbourfront and Marina Bay Cruise Centre Singapore (MBCCS) at Marina South. IRAS will release more details by 1 September 2012.
The IRAS has also produced videos on what the eTRS is and a step-by-step guide on how the eTRS for GST refund works. Please refer to the following links for more details:
GST Refund made easy video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mR3nGkXbKqg
'How to guide' video on eTRS: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS9Gd1M2RR8
IRAS wesbite on the eTRS: http://www.iras.gov.sg/irasHome/page04.aspx?id=10834
For more information on the above scheme, please contact IRAS at 1800-356 8633.