Request a document
A public register of Council documents exists since 1 January 1999. If you do not find the document you are looking for, you may introduce a request.
How to submit a request?
- You can request a document electronically in one of the official languages of the European Union.
- If you already know that the document you are looking for is not public, then request access to a non-public document.
- You can also request a document by sending us a letter:
General Secretariat of the Council of the European Union
DG F - Communication
rue de la Loi 175
B-1048 Brussels
or by fax:
+32 (0)2 281 4977
When will I receive a reply?
The Secretary-General will provide a reply to a request for access within 15 working days, although this can, exceptionally, be extended by further 15 working days.
By which means will I have access?
The applicant shall have access to documents by receiving an electronic copy of the document or, if this is not possible for technical reasons, a paper copy. It is also possible to consult documents on the spot.
What if access is refused?
In the event of a refusal, the applicant has 15 working days to make a confirmatory application asking the institution to reconsider its position.
If the confirmatory application is rejected, the applicant is informed that she/he may make a complaint to the Ombudsman or bring an action before the General Court.