Removal of a SIS Alert in Europe

Removal of a SIS Alert in the European Union

The removal of a SIS alert (Schengen Information System) is a legal process available to those who have been flagged for arrest, location, or surveillance. At ILA Law Firm, we specialize in international criminal law and extradition, assisting individuals flagged in Interpol and European systems. Acting promptly is crucial to protect your freedom and reputation.

Step 1 – Verify the Existence of a SIS Alert

Before requesting removal, it is essential to determine whether you have actually been flagged. Here’s how:

Submit a data access request to the authority of the EU country that issued the SIS alert.
The request can only be submitted by you or your lawyer.
Processing times typically range from 30 to 60 days.

There is no public registry of SIS alerts, so seeking professional legal assistance is highly recommended to access accurate data.

Step 2 – Request the Removal of a SIS Alert

Once confirmed, you may request the removal of a SIS alert through the issuing country. A member state can delete its own SIS entries in the following cases:

Mistaken identity, such as confusion with another individual.
Violation of fundamental rights, if the alert is unjustified.
Closure or dismissal of criminal proceedings, or expiration due to statutes of limitations.

If your request is denied, you can appeal to national courts, which may declare the alert illegal or disproportionate and order its removal.

Step 3 – Appeal at the European Level

If national authorities reject your request, you have two options at the European level:

File a Complaint with the European Data Protection Supervisor

Based on the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), this route protects your personal data and privacy rights.

Submit a Case to the Court of Justice of the European Union

You can challenge the legality of SIS alerts that violate fundamental rights. Though this process is more complex and time-consuming, it is essential in cases of SIS abuse.

Step 4 – Timeline and Consequences of SIS Alert Removal

The removal of a SIS alert may take several months to over a year, depending on the authority and procedure followed.

Once removed:

The alert becomes invisible in all Schengen member states.
However, you must also check for any active Interpol Red Notices related to the same case.

Protect Your Freedom with Legal Support

If you are currently flagged in SIS and want to proceed with the removal of a SIS alert, do not delay. These procedures are technical and any misstep can prolong your legal exposure.

How ILA Law Firm Can Help

Legal status verification in SIS and EU databases.
Drafting and submitting effective removal requests.
Challenging illegal or disproportionate alerts in national and EU courts.
Full legal protection in extradition and international law cases.

Contact ILA Law Firm today for a confidential consultation and personalized legal strategy.