I bought something online and changed my mind. How long do I have to return it under EU law?

What the Law Says

The EU Consumer Rights Directive sets a clear, harmonised right for consumers to withdraw from distance contracts — including online purchases — without giving a reason.

When you buy something online from a trader based in the European Union, you are protected by Directive 2011/83/EU — the Consumer Rights Directive. This law gives you a legal right to change your mind and withdraw from the contract.

The withdrawal period starts the day after you (or someone you nominated) physically receives the goods. You then have exactly 14 calendar days to notify the trader of your decision to withdraw.

Once you withdraw, the trader must reimburse all payments — including delivery costs (unless you chose a more expensive delivery option than the standard one offered) — within 14 days of receiving your withdrawal notice. If you’ve already returned the goods, they must refund you within 14 days of receiving the goods back — or within 14 days of your providing proof of return, whichever is earlier.

The trader must provide clear, pre-contractual information about your right of withdrawal — including how to exercise it — before you place the order. If they fail to do so, the withdrawal period can be extended up to 12 months and 14 days.

Statutory Text

The consumer shall have a period of 14 days in which to withdraw from the contract without giving any reason.

— Directive 2011/83/EU, Art. 9(1) — Right of withdrawal

Statutory Text

The trader shall reimburse all payments received from the consumer, including delivery costs… without undue delay and in any event not later than 14 days from the day on which the trader is informed of the consumer’s decision to withdraw.

— Directive 2011/83/EU, Art. 14(1) — Refund

Sources