Your Rights as an EU Citizen
Free movement, voting rights, and other fundamental protections.
Who is an EU citizen?
Every person who holds the nationality of an EU member state is automatically an EU citizen. EU citizenship does not replace national citizenship — it adds rights on top of it.
Freedom of movement
EU citizens can live, work, study, and retire in any EU country. You can cross borders without passport controls in the Schengen Area. Your professional qualifications are recognized across the EU.
Democratic rights
EU citizens can vote and stand as candidates in European Parliament elections and local elections in any EU country where they reside. You can petition the European Parliament and complain to the European Ombudsman.
European Citizens' Initiative
If one million EU citizens from at least seven member states sign a European Citizens' Initiative (ECI), the Commission must consider proposing new legislation on that topic. This is a direct democracy tool unique to the EU.
Data protection and consumer rights
EU citizens are protected by the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which gives you control over your personal data. Consumer protection rules ensure product safety, fair contracts, and dispute resolution across the EU.