You have a complaint against an EU institution or body?

Make a complaint to the European Ombudsman

The European Ombudsman investigates complaints from individuals, businesses and organisations about maladministration by the institutions, bodies and agencies of the European Union.

A complaint must be made within two years of the date when the person affected became aware of the facts.

Prior approaches: The complainant must first have contacted and tried to resolve the matter with the institution in question.

What is maladministration?

Maladministration occurs if an institution or body fails to act in accordance with the law or the principles of good administration, or violates human rights.

Maladministration can include administrative irregularities, unfairness, discrimination or the abuse of power, for example in the managing of EU funds, procurement or recruitment policies. It also includes the failure to reply, or the refusal or unnecessary delay in granting access to information in the public interest.

What the European Ombudsman cannot do

The European Ombudsman cannot investigate complaints against national, regional or local administrations in the Member States, even when the complaints are about EU matters.

The Ombudsman cannot investigate matters that are subject to legal proceedings.

Can the Ombudsman help me? If not, who else could?

If the Ombudsman is not able to help with the issue you are facing, there are other bodies that may be able to assist.

Please use the filters to check whether you meet the criteria for the Ombudsman to inquire into your complaint or whether the Ombudsman can give you advice.

Would you like to lodge a complaint or do you have a request for information?

The European Ombudsman cannot normally deal with your complaint if you are not a citizen of the Union or a natural or legal person residing or having your registered office in a Member State of the Union. In some instances the European Ombudsman may decide to open an own-initiative inquiry into the issue that you raise.
Please continue if you wish to see whether your complaint falls within the mandate of the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

It appears that your complaint is about the public administration in an EU Member State. Complaints about the public administration in an EU Member State are dealt with by Members of the European Network of Ombudsmen, including complaints about EU law matters. If you would like a member of the European Network of Ombudsmen to deal with your complaint, please continue to find the appropriate office to contact:

Alternatively, you may wish to:

  • petition the European Parliament. The European Parliament deals with petitions relating to subjects which come within the European Union's fields of activity. Petitions give the European Parliament the opportunity of calling attention to any infringement of a European citizen's rights by a Member State or local authorities or other institution.
    For more information on filing a petition, please visit the website of the European Parliament's Committee on Petitions;

  • contact SOLVIT which deals with cross-border problems related to the misapplication of EU law by public administrations in the Member States. SOLVIT aims to find a pragmatic solution within a ten-week deadline. SOLVIT deals, in principle, with any cross-border problem between a business or a citizen and a national public authority.
    For more information on SOLVIT, please visit the website of SOLVIT;

  • lodge a complaint with the European Commission which deals with complaints alleging infringements of EU law by EU Member States.
    For information on how to lodge such a complaint, please visit the Commission's website section on: "Complaint form for breach of EU law".










The European Ombudsman may be able to help you. In order for the Ombudsman to open an inquiry into your complaint, there are a number of conditions which must be fulfilled.

Please continue:


N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The European Ombudsman may be able to help you. In order for the Ombudsman to open an inquiry into your complaint, there are a number of conditions which must be fulfilled.

Please continue:


N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Other Ombudsmen in Bulgaria" section of the Bulgarian "Ombudsman Information Network" website provides links to other ombudsman institutions in Bulgaria.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the Public Defender's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the Chancellor's website provides a list of other bodies in Estonia and in Europe that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Χρήσιμες Συνδέσεις" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Greece that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

Information about how to complain to the Defender of Rights is available in the "Saisir le Défenseur des droits" section of the Defender of Rights’ website.

The "Nos partenaires" section of the Defender of Rights’ website provides a list of other bodies in France that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "If we can't help" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other complaint handling bodies which may be able to assist you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Linkovi" section of the the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Croatia that may be of help to you.


The "Συνδέσεις" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Cyprus that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Latvia that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the National Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Andere klachtvoorzieningen" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in the Netherlands that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Behörden" section of the government agency website "HELP.gv.at" contains a list of other authorities and complaint handling bodies which may be able to help you.


N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Ligações" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Portugal that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Stiri" section of the People's Advocate's website provides a list of other bodies in Romania that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Useful links" section of the Slovene Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Slovenia that may be of help to you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Adresár liniek" section of the Public Defender's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "links" section of the Parliamentary Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Finland which might be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

Information about how to complain to the People's Advocate is available in the "Ankohu" section of the People's Advocate’s website.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.


The "Useful Links" section of the National Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.


N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in the Republic of Montenegro that may be of help to you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

Information about how to complain to the National Ombudsman is available in the "How do you apply?" section of the Ombudsman's website.


Information about how to complain to the Protector of Citizens is available in the "Complaint" section of the Protector of Citizens’ website.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Find Authorities" section of the "Gateway to the public sector in Norway" website provides a list of other bodies in Norway that may be able to help you.


The "Links" section of the British and Irish Ombudsman Association's website provides a list of other complaint handling bodies which may be able to assist you.


N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Other Ombudsmen in Bulgaria" section of the Bulgarian "Ombudsman Information Network" website provides links to other ombudsman institutions in Bulgaria.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the Public Defender's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the Chancellor's website provides a list of other bodies in Estonia and in Europe that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Χρήσιμες Συνδέσεις" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Greece that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

Information about how to complain to the Defender of Rights is available in the "Saisir le Défenseur des droits" section of the Defender of Rights’ website.

The "Nos partenaires" section of the Defender of Rights’ website provides a list of other bodies in France that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "If we can't help" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other complaint handling bodies which may be able to assist you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Linkovi" section of the the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Croatia that may be of help to you.


The "Συνδέσεις" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Cyprus that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Latvia that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the National Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Andere klachtvoorzieningen" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in the Netherlands that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Behörden" section of the government agency website "HELP.gv.at" contains a list of other authorities and complaint handling bodies which may be able to help you.


N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Ligações" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Portugal that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Stiri" section of the People's Advocate's website provides a list of other bodies in Romania that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Useful links" section of the Slovene Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Slovenia that may be of help to you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Adresár liniek" section of the Public Defender's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "links" section of the Parliamentary Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Finland which might be able to help you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

Information about how to complain to the People's Advocate is available in the "Ankohu" section of the People's Advocate’s website.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.


The "Useful Links" section of the National Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.


N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Links" section of the the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in the Republic of Montenegro that may be of help to you.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

Information about how to complain to the National Ombudsman is available in the "How do you apply?" section of the Ombudsman's website.


Information about how to complain to the Protector of Citizens is available in the "Complaint" section of the Protector of Citizens’ website.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Find Authorities" section of the "Gateway to the public sector in Norway" website provides a list of other bodies in Norway that may be able to help you.


The "Links" section of the British and Irish Ombudsman Association's website provides a list of other complaint handling bodies which may be able to assist you.


N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

The "Other Ombudsmen in Bulgaria" section of the Bulgarian "Ombudsman Information Network" website provides links to other ombudsman institutions in Bulgaria.


The "Links" section of the Public Defender's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.



The "Links" section of the Chancellor's website provides a list of other bodies in Estonia and in Europe that may be able to help you.


The "Χρήσιμες Συνδέσεις" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Greece that may be able to help you.


Information about how to complain to the Defender of Rights is available in the "Saisir le Défenseur des droits" section of the Defender of Rights’ website.

The "Nos partenaires" section of the Defender of Rights’ website provides a list of other bodies in France that may be able to help you.


The "If we can't help" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other complaint handling bodies which may be able to assist you.


The "Linkovi" section of the the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Croatia that may be of help to you.


The "Συνδέσεις" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Cyprus that may be able to help you.


The "Links" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Latvia that may be able to help you.



The "Links" section of the National Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.




The "Andere klachtvoorzieningen" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in the Netherlands that may be able to help you.


The "Behörden" section of the government agency website "HELP.gv.at" contains a list of other authorities and complaint handling bodies which may be able to help you.



The "Ligações" section of the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Portugal that may be able to help you.


The "Stiri" section of the People's Advocate's website provides a list of other bodies in Romania that may be able to help you.


The "Useful links" section of the Slovene Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Slovenia that may be of help to you.


The "Adresár liniek" section of the Public Defender's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.


The "links" section of the Parliamentary Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in Finland which might be able to help you.



Information about how to complain to the People's Advocate is available in the "Ankohu" section of the People's Advocate’s website.




The "Useful Links" section of the National Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies that may be able to help you.



The "Links" section of the the Ombudsman's website provides a list of other bodies in the Republic of Montenegro that may be of help to you.


Information about how to complain to the National Ombudsman is available in the "How do you apply?" section of the Ombudsman's website.


Information about how to complain to the Protector of Citizens is available in the "Complaint" section of the Protector of Citizens’ website.



The "Find Authorities" section of the "Gateway to the public sector in Norway" website provides a list of other bodies in Norway that may be able to help you.


The "Links" section of the British and Irish Ombudsman Association's website provides a list of other complaint handling bodies which may be able to assist you.



N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

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N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.








































































N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

N.B. The advice given in this interactive guide is for guidance only. If you are still unsure about where to turn with your complaint, or if, despite the advice given you believe that the matter about which you wish to complain could be dealt with at the European level, please feel free to contact the European Ombudsman.

How do we deal with complaints?

This flowchart gives a rough outline of the process by which the Ombudsman deals with complaints.

  • Complaint received

    • Ombudsman's office checks
      if we should open an inquiry.

      • Inquiry opened

        The complainant is informed by letter.

        • Inquiry

          The Ombudsman assesses the complaint and may:
          - ask the institution or body to reply or provide more information;
          - arrange a meeting with and/or carry out an inspection in the institution or body;
          - ask the complainant for information or comments.

          • Complaint can be swiftly resolved

            • Solution proposal

              If institution accepts, matter is settled.

          • Ombudsman finds maladministration

            • Ombudsman makes recommendations
              to address maladministration

              Institution to give opinion within 3 months. Complainant may submit comments.

              • Closing decision

                Sets out definite findings e.g.:
                - recommendations accepted,
                - issue addressed,
                - maladministration eliminated,
                - systems / procedures improved.

          • Ombusdman finds no maladministration

      • No Inquiry

        - Issue not within the Ombudsman's mandate.
        - Complaint is not admissible (e.g. because the complainant has not first tried to resolve the matter directly with the EU institution or body).
        - Lack of information.
        - Another body better placed to deal with the matter.

Submit a complaint

For reasons of efficiency, the European Ombudsman operates an online complaints system.

Online complaints can be submitted in three easy steps:

1 Check the criteria

Go through our checklist for making a complaint and make sure that the European Ombudsman can investigate your complaint

2 Prepare the necessary information and documents in advance

In order to submit a complaint, you will need to provide the following information:

  • The name of the EU institution about which you wish to complain.
  • The decision or matter at issue in your complaint.
  • What you consider that the EU institution or body has done wrong.
  • What, in your view, the institution should do to put things right.
  • Whether the matter has already been settled by or is pending before a court.

For us to accept the complaint as complete, you will need to provide the following documentation:

  • Evidence proving that you already contacted the EU institution or body concerned in order to obtain redress and you have given it a reasonable amount of time to reply. This is a mandatory condition for a complaint to be admissible. Until we receive this evidence, we will not be able to deal with your complaint.
  • If appropriate, supporting documents about the decision or matter at issue in your complaint, and about when you became aware of it.
3 Create an account or login to an existing account

You need to create an account to submit complaints. Once you have an account, you can compile a complaint in your own time before submitting it. You can check the status of your complaint or submit new complaints from the same account.

Guidelines for complaints

  • Please keep your complaint concise. In exceptional cases, where a complaint needs to be longer than the allowed maximum number of words in the form, please include the full complaint as an attachment, and write a summary in the complaint form fields.
  • If there are a number of issues that have gone wrong, please identify and number the various issues. Please provide arguments and evidence supporting each alleged wrongdoing. Please indicate clearly what steps you consider should be taken to resolve each matter complained about.
  • Please provide only documents or information to the Ombudsman that are necessary for understanding the complaint.
  • Please do not provide the Ombudsman with personal data of third parties unless the personal data is necessary to enable the Ombudsman to process the complaint.

Our dedicated online form enables us to deal with complaints more efficiently and faster. If you cannot use the online form, the European Ombudsman accepts complaints submitted by email or post.

Submit your complaint by post

Please note that there are some complaints we cannot deal with. Therefore, even if you wish to submit a complaint by post, we advise you to go through the checklist for making a complaint section before sending your complaint.

If you cannot submit a complaint online, and wish to submit a complaint by post, please:

  • Fill out the complaint form
  • Provide only documents or information to the Ombudsman that are necessary for the understanding of the complaint.
  • Please keep your complaint concise. In exceptional cases, where a complaint exceeds five pages, please include a short summary in the complaint form and number the pages of the attached complaint.
  • Please do include:
    • Evidence proving that you already contacted the EU institution or body concerned in order to obtain redress. This is a mandatory condition for a complaint to be admissible. You will be otherwise informed that we cannot deal with your complaint.
    • If appropriate, supporting documents on the decision or matter at issue in your complaint, and about when you became aware of it.
  • Ensure that any documents attached as evidence of the wrongdoing (for example, correspondence) are numbered and named (for example, 1-Letter from xx-date, 2-Email to xx-date ...). Please also provide a list with the number and name of each document. Please refer to any document by number in the complaint.
  • Please do not provide the Ombudsman with personal data of third parties unless the personal data is necessary to permit the Ombudsman to process the complaint.
1Download the PDF version of the complaint form
Complaint form (PDF 58.49 KB)
2Post the completed form to the European Ombudsman

Médiateur européen
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CS 30403
F-67001 Strasbourg Cedex