Frequently asked questions
Are there limits to what I can consult in the archives?
30-year rule
In line with similar practices in the EU's archives, Commission documents transferred to the Historical Archives must be made public 30 years after they were produced: this is the so-called "30-years rule" (see Regulation 354/83 - European Commission archives).
Exceptions
Some documents transferred to the Historical Archives are not accessible.
Classified documents (restricted, confidential, secret, top secret) can only be made public once they have been declassified.
Documents containing sensitive information (personal data, business information, etc.) cannot be consulted while exempted from the requirement to be made public (articles 2 and 3 of EU regulation 1700/2003).
Can I have access to documents less than 30 years old?
Access to documents less than 30 years old is possible under certain conditions (see Regulation 1049/2001). Requests may be submitted using the following form: Electronic Access to Commission Documents (EASE) (europa.eu).
>> More details - European Commission document access
Why should I contact you in advance?
For logistical and organisational reasons, we strongly recommend you to contact us before visiting the archives. This will also help you to ensure the availability of relevant files for your research. To make the most of your visit, please take the following constraints into account:
If you already know the references of the files that interest you, please send them to us at least 2 working days ahead of your visit, so we can make sure those files are available for you on-site (not all documents are kept on-site and our deposit is located outside Brussels).
If not - or if it's your first visit, tell us what you're looking for, so we can help you further.
You will receive a response from us within 15 working days.
Which material can I find in your archives?
All archived Commission documents open to public access, in either microform (the original documents have already been transferred to the EU's historical archives in Florence) or paper form (if originals are not yet transferred to Florence).
Which material can I find in the EU's historical archives in Florence?
- Original documents open to public access from the European Commission and Parliament, EU Council and other institutions
- Archived documents from private fonds and other organisations are also available in the Historical Archives of the EU in Florence.
The EU Historical Archives in Florence is run by the European University Institute on behalf of the EU institutions. Under their contract, once a year the EU institutions send the Institute the originals of their public documents for permanent storage (and continued public access).
Do the Commission archives contain documents from other institutions or outside bodies?
Yes - given the nature of the Commission's activities, its files often contain such documents.
Where can I find the EU Bulletin and General Report ?
You can find them on the Publications Office of the European Union's home page. You can find earlier editions, in our reading room or in the European Commission central library.
Can I use copies of archived documents ?
In general, you are free to use all Commission documents open to public access, provided you mention the source - though special conditions may apply to some documents (press reviews, photos, etc.).
For more details, see the Rules of conduct in the reading room.
Do you also have audiovisual material ?
The Historical Archives Service mainly preserves Commission paper archives. The management of audiovisual material falls within the responsibility of DG Communication, which can provide both current footage and archive images.
Are there any special requirements for access to the reading room ?
Once you have made an appointment with our service, you will be asked by e-mail to log in to the v-Pass application via EU Login and provide some personal data. This procedure ensures that your personal data are managed in accordance with the rules in force. You will receive an email containing a QR code which you will have to present at the reception of the building, together with your identity document.