Article 5 Time limit for the storage of data

A decision on the use of personal data in accordance with Article 3(2) shall be taken as soon as possible and in any case not later than six months after such data was received by Europol.

In the absence of such a decision upon expiry of the six-month period, the personal data in question shall be deleted or destroyed and the providing Member State, EU body or third party shall be informed thereof.