Pay the deposit
The deposit is shown separately from the drink price.
Packaging with the Volta symbol
Deposit and Refund Scheme
When you buy a drink in packaging covered by the scheme, a deposit of 0,10 € is added. The amount is refunded when you return the empty packaging to an authorised collection point.
Price example
Drink price1,60 €
+
Deposit0,10 €
Total to pay1,70 €
Keep the packaging
Keep it empty, undamaged and with the markings readable.
Return it
Use an authorised Volta collection point.
Get 0,10 € back
The deposit is refunded once the packaging is validated.
How it operates
A temporary amount, not an extra cost
The deposit is neither the price of the packaging nor a tax. It is a refundable amount tied to returning the used packaging correctly.
Packaging covered
The scheme covers non-reusable primary drinks packaging in plastic, ferrous metals and aluminium, under 3 litres, when properly marked.
- Water, soft drinks, juices and nectars
- Energy and isotonic drinks
- Beer, cider, sangria and some alcoholic mixes
- Products marked with the scheme's Volta symbol
To get your refund
- Empty the packaging completely
- Do not crush or damage it
- Keep the barcode and symbol readable
- Return it to an authorised collection point
Acceptance depends on the collection point validating the packaging.
Deposit per eligible pack0,10 €
If you buy 6 covered packs, you pay 0,60 € in deposits. Return the 6 valid packs and you get the same 0,60 € back.
Useful information
Frequently asked questions
Do all products carry a deposit?
No. The deposit applies only to packaging covered and marked by the scheme. In the shop, the deposit is shown separately where applicable.
Can I return the packaging anywhere?
Returns must be made at an authorised collection point, which validates the packaging and issues the refund under the scheme's rules.
Why should I not crush the packaging?
The shape, barcode and markings are what confirm the packaging belongs to the scheme and that the deposit can be refunded.
Is the deposit subject to VAT?
The deposit is shown separately from the drink price. The product price continues to state the applicable VAT.
Where can I find official information?
See the up-to-date information from the Portuguese Environment Agency. If the law changes, the official rules in force and the markings on the packaging prevail.