Can I return an item bought online?
How the answer differs across 6 jurisdictions
GermanyFull article Yes, you generally have a legal right to return most online purchases within 14 days — no reason needed — unless the item falls under a specific statutory exception.
IrelandFull article In Ireland, you have a 14-day cooling-off period to cancel an online purchase and get a full refund, starting the day after you receive the goods.
European UnionFull article You have 14 days from the day you receive the goods to withdraw from an online purchase under EU law.
You have 14 days from the day you receive the goods to cancel the contract and return them for a full refund.
South KoreaFull article In South Korea, mail-order sellers must accept returns within 7 days of receipt without reason, and refund within 3 business days after receiving the returned item.
JapanFull article No, it is not correct. Japanese law gives consumers a legal right to cancel online purchases within 8 days, regardless of the seller's 'no returns' policy.
Read Full Articles
GermanyCan I return an item bought online?IrelandI want to return an online purchase. What is the cooling-off period?European UnionI bought something online and changed my mind. How long do I have to return it under EU law?
UKHow long do I have to return goods bought online?South KoreaA mail-order seller is refusing my return.JapanAn online seller says returns aren't accepted. Is this correct?Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: June 2026.