Fnac
Complete VAT Refund Guide for Europe
Planning to shop at Fnac in Europe? This comprehensive guide shows you exactly how to maximize your VAT refund savings, where to find Fnac stores across Europe, and insider tips to get the most money back on your purchases.
About Fnac
Founded in 1954 by André Essel and Max Théret, FNAC (Fédération Nationale d'Achats des Cadres) began as a discount purchasing cooperative for French civil servants. It evolved into France's beloved cultural hub, synonymous with books, music, electronics, and entertainment. FNAC stores are architectural landmarks in French cities, offering carefully curated selections of literature, vinyl records, cameras, tech gadgets, and concert tickets. More than a retailer, FNAC represents French intellectual and cultural life—a destination for browsing, discovering, and engaging with arts and technology.
Signature Products & Prices
French Literature & Books
€10–€30
Vinyl Records & Music
€15–€50
Cameras & Photography Gear
€200–€2,000
Consumer Electronics
€50–€1,500
Why Shop Fnac in Europe?
FNAC offers European electronics at lower prices than US markets, with France's 12% VAT refund making cameras, laptops, and audio equipment significantly cheaper. Access to European product models, plug types, and warranties. The cultural shopping experience—browsing French literature, vinyl, and tech in architectural landmark stores—is uniquely European.
Best Cities to Shop Fnac
Paris
Flagship stores, widest selection, iconic locations
Marseille
Mediterranean flagship, full tech range
Why Shop Fnac with TravelMoney
Up to 100% VAT Refunds
Get significantly more money back compared to standard 12% refunds
3 Fnac Locations
Across 2 European cities
Instant Refunds
No waiting weeks for your money back
Digital Process
Upload receipts, scan at airport, done
Fnac Store Locations in Europe
Marseille
Fnac Centre Bourse
17 Cours Belsunce, 13001 Marseille, France
Porto
Fnac Santa Catarina
Edifício Palladium, Rua Santa Catarina 73, 4000-449 Porto, Portugal
Opening Hours:
monday: 10:00 - 20:00
tuesday: 10:00 - 20:00
wednesday: 10:00 - 20:00
thursday: 10:00 - 20:00
friday: 10:00 - 20:00
saturday: 10:00 - 20:00
sunday: 12:00 - 20:00
Fnac NorteShopping
NorteShopping, 4460-841 Matosinhos, Portugal
How Much Can You Save?
VAT Refund Examples
Purchase: €1,000 → Get back €120-150 (standard refund) or up to €180 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €5,000 → Get back €600-750 (standard refund) or up to €900 (TravelMoney)
Purchase: €10,000 → Get back €1,200-1,500 (standard refund) or up to €1,800 (TravelMoney)
How to Get Your VAT Refund: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Before making a purchase
Request Custom Invoice
When checking out at Fnac, request the invoice to be made out to "Travel Money" with our Paris address. This is critical for maximizing your refund.
Step 2: When making a purchase
Pay in Local Currency
Always choose to pay in euros (€) instead of your home currency to avoid poor exchange rates and maximize savings.
Step 3: After shopping
Upload Invoice & Receipt
Immediately upload your Fnac invoice and receipt in the TravelMoney app. Don't wait until you get to the airport.
Step 4: When leaving the EU
Scan Barcode at Point of Departure
At the airport, port, or train station, scan the barcode on your TravelMoney app at customs. Bring your Fnac purchase in carry-on for potential inspection.
VAT Refund Essentials
Core Requirements
- Minimum Spend: €61.50 in total purchase value
- Eligibility: Non-EU permanent residents, under 6-month stay, purchasing goods for personal use
- Time limits: 3 months to validate at point of departure + 6 months to claim refund
- VAT Rate: 23% standard rate (most luxury goods)
Pro Tips for Fnac Shoppers
- →France offers 12% VAT refund (€100.01 minimum)—great for cameras, laptops, headphones
- →European electronics often cheaper than US prices even before VAT refunds
- →Paris flagship stores offer iconic shopping experience in historic buildings
- →FNAC Adhérent loyalty card (€10/year) gives additional 5-10% discounts
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get VAT refund on Fnac online purchases?
No. VAT refunds are only available for in-store purchases made in Europe. Online orders shipped internationally are already VAT-exempt.
Do I need to show my Fnac purchase at customs?
High-value items (typically over €1,000) may require physical inspection at customs. Keep your purchase in carry-on luggage, not checked bags.
What if I'm connecting through a non-EU airport?
You must validate your VAT refund at your last EU point of departure, not your final destination. For example, if flying Paris → London → New York, validate in Paris.
How long does it take to get my refund?
With TravelMoney, refunds are processed instantly once validated at customs. Standard tax-free services can take 4-12 weeks.
For Shoppers
Get up to 100% VAT refunds on your Fnac shopping. Join the waitlist for instant refunds.
For Merchants
Partner with TravelMoney to offer instant VAT refunds and attract more international shoppers.