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Import Entry Transaction Fee refunds

Import Entry Transaction Fee refunds

New Zealand Customs has become aware of an administrative issue which resulted in some individuals being charged the Customs portion of the Import Entry Transaction Fee (IETF) in error. 

This error impacted individuals importing goods through mail during the period 1 July 2021 to 3 March 2023. 

This only pertains to Import Clearances completed by NZ Customs.

Customs invites importers who may have been impacted to apply for a refund.

 

Time period for refund application

A refund application may be submitted up to four years after the fee was paid to Customs.  

 

What is an IETF?

The Import Entry Transaction Fee is charged by Customs to cover the administrative costs of importing goods into New Zealand. 

 

How much is the IEFT refunded?

$33.03, including GST. 

 

Applying for the refund

If you believe you may have been charged the IETF in error, please complete Customs 152 R form.

Completed forms and supporting documentation need to be submitted to IETFRefunds@customs.govt.nz.

Required supporting documentation: 

  • Proof of payment for the shipment with reference number (invoice number), in the form of a snip of a bank transaction or statement showing payment and reference (invoice number)
  • Proof of bank account details for refund payment - either a deposit slip or scan/snip of bank statement with account details
  • If the bank account for refund payment belongs to a third party, we require a signed letter from the importer authorising this as a nominated bank account for payment

Once you have submitted your application it could take up to 20 working days to approve and process your refund. If, after this time period, you have still not had any contact from Customs, please feel free to contact us on IETFRefunds@customs.govt.nz.