How to request public information

Everyone has the right to access public information. To exercise this right, all you need to do is submit a request to the person who holds the information.

How to obtain public information

To obtain public information, send a request to the person who manages this information.

You can submit a request:

  • by email or regular mail
  • personally
  • by phone.

What to include in your request

The request must contain:

  • name (title) of the requester: for individuals - last name, first name, patronymic, and for legal entities - the full name of the organization
  • contact address for response - postal or email address, as well as phone number (if available)
  • a description of the information you need to obtain. Be as clear as possible about what information you are interested in. For example, indicate the type, title, details or content of the document, if you know them
  • signature and date - for requests submitted in paper form.

Is it necessary to explain the reason for the request?

No. You can request public information, whether it concerns you personally or not, without having to explain the reason for the request.

How long to wait for a response?

Up to 5 business days from the date the request is received by the administrator.

Up to 48 hours - if the request concerns information necessary to protect the life or freedom of a person, the state of the environment, or emergency events that threaten the safety of citizens, etc.

If the request concerns a large amount of information or requires searching for information among a significant amount of data, the processing time may be extended to 20 business days. You must be notified in writing within 5 days.

Do I have to pay for providing information?

Information is provided free of charge upon request.

However, if more than 10 pages of paper copies of documents are required to respond to a request, you must reimburse the actual costs of copying or printing.

No compensation is required if the information concerns you or is of public interest. The exception is information in the field of registration of emissions and transfers of pollutants and waste.

What to do if there is no answer

If you have not received a response or have been denied access to information, you can appeal the administrator's actions to:

  • manager manager
  • of the highest authority
  • Commissioner for Human Rights of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine
  • court.

Where to get free legal support

Everyone can get free legal advice from the free legal aid system. Lawyers will advise on the right to access public information, help you properly formulate a request, and, if necessary, prepare a complaint.

Some categories of people are also entitled to free legal assistance in applying to court. These include IDPs, war veterans, family members of deceased defenders, people with low incomes, and other categories listed in Article 14 of the Law of Ukraine “On Free Legal Aid.” Lawyers will study your circumstances in detail, if necessary, prepare and submit a statement to the court, and represent your interests in court.

How to apply to the BPD provision system: