Why have I been charged 20% VAT on an item I have bought from Hong kong? I have never paid VAT befor

[davidrobertwarren]

I have been charged 20 % Vat on a model kit I have bought from Hong kong. I have bought dozens of figures over the years and never had to pay VAT before. The sellers says Ebay are putting the charge on. Why is this happening?

[billlaser · Accepted solution]

VAT is charged on imports valued over £15. If you've bought things over that price from HK before and not been charged, you've been lucky.

[plpmr · Accepted solution]

VAT is charged on any value, even under £135.

[rusticrye · Accepted solution]

There is no longer a £15 threshold. VAT is payable on the full amount (item and shipping).

@billlaser

@davidrobertwarren 

[treetopsminicottages · Accepted solution]

This rule came into force from 1st January 2021 and applies to any items brought from abroad including the EU.