If data is found, how long does a deletion request typically take to resolve?

Europol must respond to deletion requests within three months under Article 37 of the Europol Regulation, but complex cases involving multiple contributing member states often take six to twelve months. Europol cannot unilaterally delete data supplied by national authorities — it must consult the originating member state, which may object to deletion if it considers the data operationally relevant. Where deletion is refused, you may escalate to the EDPS, whose review process typically adds another four to eight months. Successful deletions require demonstrating that retention violates data accuracy, necessity, or proportionality requirements.