This guide explains the main stages and how to recognise when specialist advice is appropriate.
Step 1: Identify what exists and which authority issued it
Clarify whether the matter concerns a published Red Notice, a non-public notice, a diffusion, or only a domestic warrant. Do not treat a missing public search result as conclusive. If the record cannot be confirmed, a CCF access request may be appropriate.
Step 2: Examine the grounds
| Issue | Illustrative question | Relevant evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Political misuse | Is prosecution predominantly political in purpose or context? | Public statements, procedural history, expert country evidence |
| Data quality | Is personal participation described clearly and accurately? | Charges, warrants, judgments, identity records |
| Human rights | Is there credible evidence of serious procedural or treatment concerns? | Court files, reliable reports, protection decisions |
| Private commercial case | Is civil non-performance recast as criminal wrongdoing without adequate particulars? | Contracts, loan documents, civil litigation |
| Subsequent change | Has a decision materially altered the legal basis of the information? | Acquittal, dismissal, warrant cancellation, extradition judgment |
No individual document guarantees a result. The arguments must explain why the issue affects processing under INTERPOL's rules.
Step 3: Build an admissible, well-indexed application
Typical materials include identification, representative authority if applicable, a factual chronology, a concise legal submission and legible annexes. Supporting documents in other languages may need translation. The CCF primarily examines written submissions.
Step 4: Submit through the proper CCF channel
Since 26 March 2026, new CCF requests must normally use the secure online portal. The CCF can authorise another means in exceptional circumstances under its Operating Rules. Its statutory timeline for a deletion decision is nine months after admissibility, with possible extensions.
Step 5: Respond to further questions and consider interim risk
The CCF may seek further information from the applicant, relevant countries or INTERPOL bodies. If detention or another acute risk is involved, ask counsel to examine provisional measures and urgent national-law remedies in parallel.
Step 6: Understand the scope of the outcome
A deletion decision relates to INTERPOL's processing of the relevant data. It does not, by itself, quash a domestic warrant, invalidate a criminal charge or command a foreign court to release someone. Separate action may be required to address copies held in national systems.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Confusing a personal denial of guilt with a rule-based data challenge.
- Submitting an unstructured collection of documents without connecting each item to a legal issue.
- Missing the distinction between an access, deletion and revision request.
- Assuming that a CCF filing automatically suspends extradition.
- Treating an advertised 'guaranteed deletion' as credible.
FAQ
Can I apply myself?
Yes, the CCF accepts requests from individuals, as well as authorised representatives. Complex records often benefit from specialist review.
How much does the CCF charge?
The CCF does not charge an application fee. Legal representation and supporting work can incur separate costs. See the fee guide.
What if the CCF rejects my application?
A routine appeal on the same material is not provided. Article 42 revision has a specific newly discovered fact requirement.
Sources: INTERPOL Red Notices; CCF submissions.