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14 Sep. 2024

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Income tax return and tax refunds in Europe: answers to frequently asked questions of Ukrainians

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Income tax return and tax refunds in Europe: answers to frequently asked questions of Ukrainians

Many Ukrainians working abroad are unaware that they can receive a tax refund after filing an income tax return. Find out who can get the money back and how to file a declaration to get your overpaid taxes back.

Legal advice on employment abroad for Ukrainians
Legal advice on employment abroad for Ukrainians
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Today, moving to Europe is a forced step for many Ukrainians. However, it is associated not only with the difficulties of legalization and obtaining temporary protection in the EU, but also with more local problems, such as finding legal work and paying taxes. Due to the lack of knowledge of the local language and legislation, many face problems in managing their finances, in particular when filing tax returns. Therefore, it is important to know the basic rules in order to get your money back, including through tax refunds. What to look for and how to properly report to the tax authorities is described in the article below.

How to avoid losing your earnings?


If you are already working or are planning to work abroad, it is important to avoid illegal work and always demand official employment. This not only protects your rights as an employee, but also ensures that you can receive a tax refund. There are several key points to consider:

1. Illegal work is fraught with risks. Always choose legal employment and payment of salary to a bank account.

2. Request payslips. This is a document that shows your salary and taxes that have been deducted.

Do I have to file an income tax return?


In most European countries, there is an obligation to file an income tax return for the year you worked. Even if it is not mandatory in your particular case, filing a declaration can be beneficial for you. Why: By filing a tax return, you can get back overpaid taxes and receive additional financial benefits. For example, due to low incomes and high tax-free amounts, many Ukrainians can count on a tax refund.




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Where do I get the data to fill out the declaration?


To fill out a tax return, you will need annual forms from your employer, which indicate your income and deducted taxes. If you have the time and inclination, you can try to figure out how to file a tax return yourself. However, if the legislation seems complicated or you do not speak the language, you can always contact specialists who will help you with the preparation of all the necessary documents.

How long does the tax refund process take?


The tax refund process can take from two to six months. After your tax return is reviewed by the tax authorities of the country in which you worked, you will receive a refund of overpaid taxes. This is additional money that can be a significant financial assistance. We talked about how much money you can get back in last week's article.

Will filing a tax return affect social benefits?


Tax refunds do not affect the receipt of social benefits. Moreover, filing an income tax return helps you to legally receive your money, and the tax refund becomes a nice bonus.

How do I check if I paid my taxes correctly?


The tax system in each country is different, and often tax information is available only in the local language or in English. However, for Ukrainians working in Europe, there is a solution - consultations with tax experts who will help you check your payroll and determine whether the taxes were calculated correctly, and as a result, get the opportunity to refund overpaid taxes.

One of the most well-known companies in this field is RT TAX, which has more than 400 offices in 40 countries and has helped more than 250,000 employees get their taxes back.

RT TAX offers services with no upfront fees - you pay only if you successfully get your tax refund. This means you don't have to pay anything upfront.


Contact the experts and get your money back!

We remind you! According to the Tax Code, Ukrainians who are abroad and have income but have permanent residence in Ukraine are residents of Ukraine. This means that they have to file a tax return. Read more about what double taxation is and how it works, how to file a tax return and what fees will have to be paid in any case in our previous article.


Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.




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Frequantly

asked questions

How to file a tax return if you are abroad?

Citizens who have received foreign income and are abroad can send a tax return by mail (with acknowledgment of receipt and a list of attachments), or electronically, in particular through the Electronic Cabinet service (using an electronic digital signature), or contact an embassy or consulate.

What are the peculiarities of tax refunds for foreigners?

Do Ukrainians living abroad have to file tax returns in Ukraine?

How is foreign income taxed in Ukraine?

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