Press Release: Internal market: the Commission takes action to ensure non‑discriminatory treatment for European citizens buying land in Germany

The European Commission decided on 24 June 2010 to take action to ensure non‑discriminatory treatment for European citizens with regard to real estate by asking Germany to fulfil its obligations under the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) and to guarantee on its territory the principles of non‑discrimination, free movement of European citizens, free movement of workers, freedom of establishment and free movement of capital. The Commission considers that Germany is failing to comply with Articles 18, 21, 45, 49 and 63 of the TFEU. The Commission's request to Germany takes the form of a reasoned opinion. If the national authorities do not respond satisfactorily within two months, the Commission may refer the matter to the Court of Justice.