New EU rules: mandatory opt-out and opt-in functions effective June 19, 2026
The EU is introducing new rules that should make it easier for consumers to cancel online purchases or services. From June 19, 2026, web shops and online service providers must offer a clear, always available cancellation function (for products) or stop function (for services). This obligation is included in the new Article 230oa of the Dutch Civil Code.
The basic principle is clear: canceling an agreement must be at least as easy as concluding it.
In this blog, we explain what is changing, what the law prescribes exactly, and how you can prepare your webshop or service for this.
What is changing?
Do you sell products or services to consumers online? Then, from June 19, 2026, you must offer a withdrawal function that is:
- is clearly visible
- is easy to find
- is always available throughout the entire withdrawal period
- provides direct access to the cancellation process
The feature must not be hidden behind submenus, pop-ups, or extra steps. The consumer must be able to cancel without having to search for it.
What remains unchanged?
Although a new obligation is being added, the right of withdrawal itself remains unchanged. The legal deadlines, conditions, and exceptions remain as they are now. The withdrawal function simply offers consumers an additional, low-threshold way to submit their withdrawal. The right remains the same; only the route is simplified.
How should the withdrawal function work?
The law prescribes a simple and transparent process:
- The customer opens the withdrawal or stop function.
- The customer fills in the required information.
- The customer confirms the cancellation via a second clear function.
- You immediately send a confirmation of receipt.
- For products, the return period then begins.
Important: no additional barriers. So no mandatory phone calls, no chat with an employee, no unnecessary forms.
Practical examples
Example 1: Online store with products
A customer orders a smartwatch. His order overview includes a clear cancellation function. He fills in his details → confirms → immediately receives an email with the cancellation confirmation. No extra steps, no hassle. Exactly as the law intends.
Example 2: Online service provider
A customer purchases access to an online course. The learning environment has a stop function on the order page. He does not have to log in again or click through menus. After confirming, he immediately receives an email with the confirmation of receipt.
Example 3: Partial cancellation
A customer orders three products but only wants to return one. The withdrawal function must support this: partial termination must be possible.
Who does this apply to?
The obligation applies to:
- online stores that sell products to consumers
- providers of online services (such as courses, coaching, software, subscriptions)
- sellers via social media
- basically anyone who enters into online distance contracts for which a right of withdrawal applies
What can you do now?
Don't want to be caught off guard at the last minute? Then get started now:
- Decide where the withdrawal function will be located on your website or platform
- Make sure the feature is easily accessible
- Check that customers can cancel without any extra steps
- Test the process regularly
- Clearly inform customers about their withdrawal options
WebwinkelKeur is closely monitoring these developments. As soon as more details become available regarding the exact implementation requirements, we will, of course, share them with our members.