Tax Free: Customs Approval Now Available for More EU Countries at Riga Airport (RIX)
Tax-Free Shopping Gets a Digital Boost at Riga Airport
Starting today, February 4, 2026, travelers passing through Riga International Airport (RIX) have a more streamlined way to claim their Tax-Free refunds. A self-service kiosk utilizing the Customs Approval System (CAS) now allows validation of purchases made not only in Latvia, but also in Estonia, Italy, Lithuania, Finland, and Sweden through partner retailer Global Blue Latvia. This expansion of services promises a more efficient process for non-EU residents.
The Rise of Digital Tax Refunds
The move towards digital solutions for Tax-Free shopping is gaining momentum globally. Traditionally, travelers needed to present physical receipts to customs officials for validation before claiming a refund. The introduction of the CAS kiosk in Riga last year, a collaborative effort between the State Revenue Service of Latvia (VID), Global Blue Latvia, and Riga International Airport, marked a significant step towards modernization.
Now, with the expanded functionality, the kiosk offers a centralized point for validating purchases from multiple European countries. This is particularly beneficial for travelers who combine shopping trips across the region. The digital system is also utilized at all border crossing points, facilitating online export confirmation and a more efficient Value Added Tax (VAT) refund process.
How the CAS System Works
The CAS system simplifies the Tax-Free refund process. Travelers who have made eligible purchases at participating retailers can use the self-service kiosk at Riga Airport to electronically validate their receipts. This eliminates the need to queue for manual customs approval, saving valuable time, especially during peak travel periods.
Global Blue Latvia has enhanced the digital solution to accommodate receipts from its partners in Estonia, Italy, Lithuania, Finland, and Sweden. This means shoppers can consolidate their refund claims at a single location, making the process more convenient.
Benefits for Travelers and Retailers
The implementation of the CAS system offers several advantages. For travelers, it means a faster, more convenient, and less stressful refund experience. For retailers, it streamlines the Tax-Free shopping process, potentially encouraging increased spending from international visitors.
The system’s efficiency also benefits customs authorities by automating a previously manual process. This allows them to focus resources on other critical areas of border control.
The Future of Tax-Free Shopping
The trend towards digital Tax-Free solutions is expected to continue. Further integration with mobile apps and online platforms could provide even greater convenience for shoppers. We may see more airports and border crossings adopting similar self-service kiosks and digital validation systems.
The success of the CAS system in Riga demonstrates the potential for wider adoption of this technology across Europe and beyond. As international travel recovers and retail sectors seek to attract global customers, streamlining the Tax-Free shopping experience will become increasingly important.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which countries are currently supported by the CAS kiosk at Riga Airport?
A: Latvia, Estonia, Italy, Lithuania, Finland, and Sweden.
Q: What is the CAS system?
A: CAS stands for Customs Approval System. It’s a digital solution for validating Tax-Free receipts.
Q: Who is eligible to use the CAS kiosk?
A: Non-EU residents whose permanent place of residence is outside the European Union.
Q: Where can I find more information about Tax-Free shopping in Latvia?
A: Visit the Global Blue Latvia website.
Did you know? The CAS kiosk was initially installed in Riga Airport in May 2025.
Pro Tip: Keep your original receipts and passport readily available when using the CAS kiosk.
We encourage you to share your experiences with the new CAS system at Riga Airport in the comments below. Explore our other articles on travel tips and duty-free shopping for more helpful information.