How to File a Complaint with the Cyprus Ombudsman
The Ombudsman (Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights) investigates complaints about public services: delays, unfair treatment, rights violations.
Who can complain? Anyone, regardless of residency status, and even if they are not in Cyprus at the time. You can also complain on behalf of someone else with their consent.
Is it free? Yes, submitting and examining a complaint is free.
What can you complain about? Actions or failures by a public service or public officer that violate your rights or the law, for example very long delays in processing a benefit.
Step 1: Gather your facts. Dates, names of offices, reference numbers, copies of letters, and what you have already tried.
Step 2: Write your complaint. Keep it short and factual. Say what happened, when, which office, and what outcome you want.
Step 3: Submit it. Options include:
- the form on the website, ombudsman.gov.cy
- email: ombudsman@ombudsman.gov.cy
- by hand at 2 Diagorou, Ground Floor, 1097 Nicosia
- by post: Office of the Commissioner for Administration and Human Rights, 1470 Nicosia
Step 4: Wait and follow up. Keep your complaint reference. The office may ask for more information.
Good to know
- Recommendations of the Commissioner are not binding, but they carry weight with the authorities.
- It is prosecutable to punish or treat unfavourably a person who submitted a complaint.
- A complaint does not stop appeal deadlines. If you have a rejection letter, meet the appeal deadline as well. (To verify: the Ombudsman’s own time limit for complaints. Submit as soon as possible.)