SOLVIT

Are you having a problem with a government agency in another EU country?

SOLVIT is a free service that helps businesses and citizens resolve problems with public institutions within the EU. It can help in situations where a public authority in another EU country incorrectly applies EU rules, acts in a discriminatory manner, or otherwise infringes on your rights. It offers a quick and informal solution without the need for legal proceedings.

How can SOLVIT help you?

SOLVIT can be helpful, for example, with problems related to:

• business and the cross-border provision of services,
• recognition of professional qualifications,
• visas and residence rights,
• cross-border movement of capital and payments,
• VAT refunds,
• working abroad,
• health insurance and social security,
• motor vehicles and driver’s licenses.

How does SOLVIT work?

Each case is handled by two SOLVIT centers:

• the local service center in your country,
• the control center in the country where the problem occurred.

The National Contact Point first verifies whether the case falls within SOLVIT’s scope; if necessary, it requests additional information and then forwards the case to the Coordination Center. The Coordination Center contacts the relevant public authority and works with it to find a solution. The home center will usually contact you within one week. The coordination center will then let you know within one week whether it will take on the case. The goal is to resolve the case within 10 weeks of its receipt by the coordination center.

What You Should Know

SOLVIT resolves problems with public authorities, not disputes between private companies. The service also does not handle consumer disputes, claims for damages, or cases that have already been brought before a court. You can also find examples of resolved cases on the SOLVIT website.

How to Use the Service

You can submit your case online through the SOLVIT network, which has a presence in every EU member country.