Yes, GST applies to international airline tickets, with rates heavily dependent on the class of travel and the jurisdiction. As of late 2025 in India, economy class attracts a 5% GST rate, while premium economy, business, and first-class tickets are taxed at 18%. These rates are generally consistent for both domestic and international flights in this region.
What is the airfare GST on international travel? Ans. For travellers flying on Economy class tickets, a GST rate of 5% will be applicable on international travel. On the other hand, the applicable GST rate is 12% for Business and Premium Economy class fliers.
International transport is GST-free if you sell it to passengers travelling to or from Australia (by air or sea) and: their last place of departure in Australia is to a destination outside Australia. it's from a place outside Australia to the first place of arrival in Australia.
As long as the ticket includes at least one origin, destination or stopover that is outside the taxation area, the Canada Revenue Agency (the “CRA”) will generally consider all passenger transportation services included in the ticket as being international services that are zero-rated for GST/HST purposes (i.e., taxed ...
The GST rate on flight tickets depends on the travel class: 5% for economy class and 18% for business or premium class, applicable to both domestic and international travel.
Whether you're purchasing from an overseas supplier or shipping items yourself, you're likely responsible for reporting and paying the GST to the Australian Border Force or through your customs broker. In some cases, freight forwarders may pay on your behalf and invoice you accordingly.
Can I claim GST on flight tickets for personal travel? No, GST cannot be claimed for booking tickets for personal travel. Input Tax Credit (ITC) is given only for flight tickets booked under the company GSTIN with correct invoicing for business purposes.
International Taxes and Government or Airport-imposed fees
Various foreign taxes, inspection fees, and security charges typically excluding airport departure taxes. Select countries such as the UK, France and Ghana may require additional taxes based on the cabin of service.
The Australian Government's Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) allows international travellers to claim a refund on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET). The government pays this on eligible purchases you make in Australia and take offshore when you meet certain conditions.
GST/HST/QST: Where applicable, these taxes are collected on flights and services provided in Canada. Generally, where the travel originates in the United States or the journey includes an international origin or destination, these taxes do not apply.
Tickets up to Rs. 100 attract 5% GST, while those above Rs. 100 attract 18%. Convenience fees charged by ticketing platforms are subject to GST as a separate component.
How to Avoid GST on Overseas Purchases Legally
Subtracting GST from Price
To calculate how much GST was included in the price, divide the total price by 11 ($1000∕11=$90.91). To calculate the price without GST, divide the price by 1.1 ($1000∕1.1=$909.09).
To avoid these extra costs, consider booking directly through the airline's official website or contacting customer service for assistance. But there is good news: Airline Loyalty Programs can help offset some of the hidden taxes and fees. Earning and redeeming miles can lead to discounted fees or even free flights.
Air Travel New GST Reforms
The reforms also impact air travel, making domestic flights more affordable for the majority of travelers: Economy-class domestic flights will continue to attract a 5% GST. Business and premium domestic flights will now have an 18% GST, up from the previous 12% for some categories.
A significant number of international travel and transport services are GST-free under Australian law. For example: International flights and voyages, including those commencing or terminating overseas.
Tourists buying goods from retailers who participate in the electronic Tourist Refund Scheme (eTRS) may claim a refund of the GST paid on purchases made in Singapore.
You can claim a GST refund in the following situations, when additional tax is paid or deposited due to errors or omissions. When dealers and deemed export goods or services are subject to refund or refund. Refunds can also be made for purchases made by UN agencies or embassies.
GST applies to domestic air travel, other than where: a domestic flight forms part of a ticket for international travel or is cross-referenced to an international ticket and is purchased at any time up to and including the date of international travel, or.
Additional mandatory government fees quickly add to the cost:
Prices include: Base Fare and Carrier imposed fees. 7.5% U.S. government excise tax.
Transition Rule for Air Ticket Bookings
If you booked and paid for a premium-class ticket before September 22, 2025, the old 12% GST rate applies, even if you travel after this date. However, any new bookings or re-ticketing made on or after September 22, 2025, will be charged the new 18% GST rate.
Notably, most online ticketing platforms, such as BookMyShow or PayTM, already include the applicable GST in the displayed ticket prices. This means that consumers do not have to worry about calculating the GST separately while making their bookings.
You may be entitled to a refund of some taxes included in the price of your ticket: If you're only refunded taxes, the remaining value of the ticket will be lost and can't be used for future travel. Upon written request, taxes or fees not imposed by the airline that are specific to destinations can be refunded.