If you purchased goods outside Austria and are claiming a VAT refund using the PIE VAT app, you must get a manual customs stamp when leaving the EU from Austria.
Where to go at Vienna Airport
For checked luggage: Go to the DEV area before check-in
For carry-on items: Go to the DEV area after security, near your departure gate
Look for signs labeled DEV (Digital Export Validation).
At the DEV Counter
Tell the staff your transaction is non-digital
Ask for manual export validation
Show your passport, boarding pass, receipt, and goods
The officer will stamp your receipt
Be prepared to pay a fee (card only, no cash)
On PIE app
After receiving the stamp, take a photo of the stamped receipt or form and upload it in the PIE VAT app to complete your refund request.