Retrieving government information

Dutch government information is always public. This information can be obtained in different ways. You can, for example, consult government websites or brochures. In addition, you can also retrieve government information based on the Dutch Government Information (Public Access) Act (Wet openbaarheid van bestuur, Wob). A request based on this Act is referred to as a Wob request.

Submitting a Wob request

You should submit your Wob request at an administrative body. You can determine how you do this. For example, by telephone, email or letter. If the administrative body does not have the requested information, it must forward the request to the administrative body that does have this information (forwarding obligation). The administrative body will make a decision within 4 weeks of having received the Wob request. However, this period can be extended by 4 weeks.

Exceptions

Your Wob request will not be allocated if:

• security is compromised by making the information public;
• it concerns confidential data related to people or companies;
• other interests carry more weight than making the data public.