basically there are 3 scenarios:
1) you order in the vsl webshop and (at least one) product needs shipping
-> the order is forwarded to the distributor for your region and further proceeding happens to local regulations
- if VAT applies or not depends on source- and destination country and respectoive VAT regulations
- seperate rules for america because of the tax-freedom-act for internet business (price at VSL website for US does not include VAT)
2) you order in the vsl webshop and no product needs shipping (extended library license or download product) *)
- a) there is a tax regulation between austria and your country and you provide a valid VAT ID
-> vsl examines validity and subtracts the 20% included VAT
- b) there is no tax regulation between austria and your country or you don't provide a valid VAT ID
-> your invoice includes the austrian VAT because we have to pay it over
*) ViennaKeys ordered alongside with products which do not need to be shipped will be sent directly from vienna though
unfortunately not even within the EU the regulations are too clear and the administrative overhead is enormous - it seems the EU did not yet realize there is something like internet or online business and is intending to leave definition of the regulations to the court of justice ... very annoying.
import duties in countries without a trade agreement with the country of the seller is a seperate topic and even more complicated.
and because this is not enough: there is actually within the EU a separate set of regulations for licenses, even if the *normal* regulations for VAT would apply ... haha ....not very funny buerocratic nonsense .,..
christian