VAT Calculator · Practical guide
VAT Rates by Country
Standard VAT rates range from 19% to 27% across major economies — with the tax on a 100 net price for each.
At a glance
The Short Answer
Standard VAT rates in major VAT countries cluster around 19%–25%: 20% in the UK and France, 19% in Germany, 21% in Spain and the Netherlands, 22% in Italy, 25% in Sweden, and a world-high 27% in Hungary. Enter any rate into the calculator above to split a price at that country's rate.
Interactive tool
VAT Calculator
Enter your own values, then compare the result with the examples below.
VAT Breakdown
Standard Rates and What They Do to a 100 Net Price
| Country | Standard Rate | VAT on 100 Net | Gross Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 20% | 20.00 | 120.00 |
| Germany | 19% | 19.00 | 119.00 |
| France | 20% | 20.00 | 120.00 |
| Italy | 22% | 22.00 | 122.00 |
| Spain | 21% | 21.00 | 121.00 |
| Netherlands | 21% | 21.00 | 121.00 |
| Sweden | 25% | 25.00 | 125.00 |
| Hungary | 27% | 27.00 | 127.00 |
Reduced and Zero Rates
Most of these countries also apply reduced rates to essentials — 5% on home energy in the UK, 7% on food and books in Germany — plus zero-rated categories like children's clothing in the UK and exempt categories such as medical services. The standard rate is only the default; check which band a specific product falls into.
Why the US Has No VAT
The United States is the notable exception among major economies: it uses state and local sales taxes collected once at retail, instead of a VAT collected at each stage of production. That is why US shelf prices exclude tax while VAT-country prices include it.
Rates Change Over Time
Standard rates move — the UK has used 15%, 17.5%, and 20% in recent decades, and Germany temporarily cut its rate in 2020. Always confirm the current rate with the local tax authority before invoicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has the highest standard VAT rate?
Hungary, at 27%. Several Nordic countries, including Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, apply 25%.
What is the VAT rate in the UK?
The standard rate is 20%, with a 5% reduced rate on items like home energy and a 0% rate on most food and children's clothing.
Does the United States have VAT?
No. The US uses state and local sales taxes collected at the final retail sale, rather than a value-added tax collected at each production stage.
Do VAT rates change?
Yes. Governments adjust standard and reduced rates over time, so verify the current rate with the country's tax authority before relying on it.