This ranking lists 196 countries from highest to lowest by vat descending. Hungary tops at 27.0%, while United States has the lowest rate at 0.0%. Data year: 2024.
📅 April 2026🌎 196 countries ranked📈 vat descending🕑 Data: 2024
Key InsightHighest rates: Hungary, Denmark, Croatia top this ranking. The leading country reaches 27.0% — among the heaviest statutory tax burdens worldwide. Scroll down for the full country-by-country breakdown.
The countries with the highest VAT / GST Rate are: Hungary, Denmark, Croatia. Hungary tops the list at 27.0%. High-tax countries typically offer extensive public services — healthcare, education, pensions — funded by these revenues. Effective rates after deductions are often lower than statutory top rates.
How does VAT / GST Rate affect expats and digital nomads?
VAT / GST Rate directly impacts take-home pay and investment returns for globally mobile professionals. A 30-percentage-point difference between countries can mean €30,000/year saved on €100,000 gross income. Key considerations: the 183-day residency rule, tax treaties between countries, territorial vs worldwide tax systems, and special regimes (Portugal IFICI 10% flat, Spain Beckham Law 24%). Always confirm current rates with official sources before relocating.
What is the methodology behind the Countries with Highest VAT Rate 2024?
This ranking uses statutory headline rates from vat descending, data year 2024. Statutory rates are the official legal top rates — effective rates (after deductions, allowances, and tax treaty benefits) are typically lower. Corporate rates shown are the standard national rate excluding municipal or state surcharges. Rankings are updated annually as new OECD and official national data becomes available.
Data sources: OECD Tax Database, IMF Fiscal Monitor, national tax authorities.
Rates shown are statutory headline rates (top marginal for income tax, standard for VAT/corporate).
Effective rates depend on deductions, filing status, and individual circumstances.
Last updated April 2026. Not tax advice — consult a qualified advisor for your situation.