Zara Return Policy: Everything You Need To Know
Written by
Rudri Patel
Edited by
Elizabeth Constantineau
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Zara is a multinational fashion powerhouse with more than 1,800 stores around the globe. As with all fashion items, returns are important. After all, what happens if you get a new outfit only to find it doesn’t fit quite like you thought it would? Read this guide to learn more about the Zara return policy.
Zara Return Time Frames
Made a purchase at Zara, but had a change of heart? You can return the item, but must be mindful of the guidelines.
General Return Window
You have 30 days from the date of purchase in-store to return your items to Zara. For online orders, you have 30 days from the shipping confirmation date.
Items must be unused with the original tags.
Zara’s Holiday and Promotional Return Policy
Zara does not have a special holiday policy for returns. Returns must be made within 30 days from the purchase date or shipping confirmation date.
Exceptions for Specific Categories
While the Zara return policy is clear, some items have different rules. Here are the exceptions to note:
- Fragrances and beauty products: Must be unopened and in the original packaging.
- Underwear, swimwear and earrings: These items are returnable only if hygiene seals are intact.
- Customized or altered items: These items are considered final sale and cannot be returned.
- Clearance items: Generally these can be returned but check your receipt to make sure it is not marked final sale.
Online vs. In-Store Return Deadlines
For in-store purchases, Zara allows returns within 30 days of the purchase date. For online orders, the return window is 30 days from the shipping date.
What Items Are Eligible for Return at Zara?
Generally, items eligible for return must be unused. For clothing, items must be in original condition, not washed and with the original tags. For footwear, shoes must be in the original box and unworn.
Also, the following items are eligible for return only if certain conditions are met:
- Undergarments and swimwear: You can only exchange or return swimwear and women’s undergarments in new condition with the protective bag or sticker in place. You cannot return men’s undergarments. You can only return or exchange children’s undergarments if they’re socks, tights, tops, bodysuits or undershirts that are in new condition.
- Accessories: You must return accessories in original, intact packaging.
- Fragrances and cosmetics: Returns are only accepted if the original seal is in place.
- Personalized items: No returns or exchanges.
- Packs: You must return the entire pack inclusive of all items at the same time.
Non-Returnable Items
Here are the non-returnable items:
- Gift cards
- Final sale items
- Used or damaged products that aren’t Zara’s fault
- Products returned after the 30-day window
Zara Refund Options: 3 Ways To Know
What are your refund options at Zara?
Refund to Original Payment Method
If you return your item within 30 days of the purchase date or shipping confirmation date, you will receive your refund based on your original payment method.
It may take up to 14 days for that amount to appear in your account.
Exchange for Another Item
Exchanges can only happen in the store. Exchanges must be within 30 days of purchase and for the same item in a different size or color.
If you want to exchange your item for something new, you must return your item and make a new purchase.
Store Credit Option
Store credit may be offered for in-store returns without a receipt. Store credit issuance may vary from store to store depending on a manager’s discretion.
Refund Timeline
According to the Zara return policy, refunds are typically processed within 14 days of receiving your return, depending on your payment method and bank.
In-Store vs. Online Zara Returns
There are a few options available to return your Zara items.
| Feature | In-Store Return | Online Return |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Same day | Depends on postal service |
| Cost | None | Refund will be reduced by $4.95 if using Zara’s drop-off mail service |
| Convenience | Processed by staff on site | Done from home |
In-Store Returns
- Bring the item to the store. It should be unused, in original condition with the tags attached.
- Provide proof of purchase. You can offer a printed or digital receipt, an order confirmation email, Zara app with purchase history or QR code from your account.
- Go to customer service. Your refund or exchange will be processed as long as it meets Zara’s guidelines.
Online Returns
- Log in to your Zara account. Navigate to “Orders and Returns.” If logging in as a guest, choose “Manage My Order.”
- Select items to return.
- Choose a drop-off destination.
- You will receive an email with instructions with a QR code or return label.
- Take the package to the drop-off location.
Good To Know
There is no restocking fee at Zara. However, if you return your item using Zara’s drop-off mail service, $4.95 will be deducted from your refund.
Common Zara Return Issues and How To Solve Them
When returning items, you may encounter some common issues. Here are potential solutions to issues that may arise:
Missing Receipt
You can use a digital proof of purchase. This could include the following:
- Proof of purchase on your Zara app.
- Confirmation email of the purchase.
- Payment card with your date of purchase.
A Zara customer service representative may be able to look up your purchase without a receipt.
Damaged or Defective Items
Initiate your return as usual, but indicate that the return is as a result of the item being damaged.
If it is an online order, take a picture of the damage and contact the Zara customer service agent. You may be offered a refund, replacement or free return shipping.
Missed the Return Deadline
The standard return deadline is 30 days. If you are beyond the return date, visit a store in person. Managers have the discretion to process a refund past the deadline.
Partial Refunds
A partial refund may happen if you choose to send back your item via a Zara drop-off point. An amount of $4.95 will be deducted from your refund. Items that are damaged or have missing tags may receive only a partial refund.
Zara Return Policy FAQ
Find the answers to the most common questions about Zara's return policy below.- How long does it take to get a refund?
- It may take up to 14 days for the amount to appear in your account.
- Can I return a Zara online order in-store?
- Yes, online orders can be returned in-store.
- Do I need the original packaging?
- According to the Zara website, "You can return your order in any other packaging provided that it is properly sealed to prevent the items from getting lost."
- What if I don't have my receipt?
- Not having your receipt isn't a problem. You can recover your receipt by using this link.
- You'll need a few things:
- The reference number of some of the items you purchased.
- The gift card, debit or credit card you used for the purchase.
- The date of the purchase.
- Will I get back the shipping costs?
- Original shipping costs are not refundable. If you use Zara's drop-off point service for returns, a fee of $4.95 will be deducted from your refund.
More Return Policies To Know
Joshua Rodriguez contributed to the reporting for this article.
Information is accurate as of April 9, 2025.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.
