Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What rights do I have as an EU citizen?

Citizens of the Union enjoy genuine rights under Union law. The core rights include:

• freedom of movement and the right of residence within the territory of the member states
• right to vote and stand as a candidate at elections to the European Parliament and at municipal elections in the member state of residence
• right to diplomatic and consular protection
• right of petition to the European Parliament and to take part in a European citizens' initiative.
• right to refer to the European Ombudsman.

There is more information in Your life in the European Union.

For queries about your rights in the EU, you can contact Your Europe Advice, a team of lawyers providing free advice - in your own language and within a week of your request. This service, which operates under contract with the European Commission, can advise on topics such as:

• your rights when travelling, living, working, retiring or studying in another EU country 
• the rights of consumers within the EU 
• personalised advice to EU nationals on their rights under EU law.  

Your Europe Advice works closely with SOLVIT, an on-line problem-solving network that helps individuals or companies in cases where EU law may possibly have been wrongly applied by authorities in another EU country.

There is a SOLVIT centre in every EU member state. Some examples of cross-border issues SOLVIT can help with are: recognition of professional qualifications and diplomas, social security and motor vehicle registration.