Frequently asked questions
Yes. The Ombud can consider complaints against the public administration's failure to reply and tardy case processing in the public administration. However, you must first have sent a written reminder to the public administration where you remind them of the case. If you do not receive a reply within a reasonable time, you can file a complaint with the Ombud. You must enclose a copy of the reminder with the complaint.
No. Before you complain to the Ombud, you must have exhausted all possibilities of appeal that are available in the public administration. Appeals shall be addressed to the public body that made the decision, but shall be considered by a superior administrative body.
Yes, you can ask a case officer to provide guidance on what types of cases the Ombud considers and about how to write a complaint. Guidance is normally given over the phone.
It is possible for someone else to file the complaint on your behalf. Then, an authorisation must be enclosed that clearly states that the person in question is authorised to complain on your behalf. Lawyers do not need authorisation to complain on behalf of their clients.
The Parliamentary Ombud cannot reverse decisions or order the authorities to do anything, but the authorities will usually comply with the Ombud’s statements.
We recommend that you use the Parliamentary Ombud’s complaint form, but you can also submit your complaint by letter. Please note that if you email us, it is important that the email does not contain sensitive personal information.
No. You can complain to the Ombud yourself.
No. Filing a complaint is free.
Yes. The deadline for complaining is one year. The deadline is calculated from the date on which the public administration made a final decision in the case.
If you are complaining against a specific administrative decision, it is important that you enclose a copy of the decision. If your complaint concerns tardy case processing or the public administration's failure to reply, it is important that you enclose a copy of your written reminder to the public administration. It is also a good idea to enclose copies of other documents that elucidate your case, particularly letters or documentation from the public administration.
You will receive a preliminary answer within three weeks. If we can consider your case, we will inform you about when you can expect to receive a more detailed answer from us.