This guide is informational. Always verify how the rules apply to your specific case.
Short answer: The Social Welfare Board must, as far as possible, meet the child's need for contact with parents and guardians. If necessary for the purpose of care, the board may, according to Section 14 of the LVU, regulate contact with guardians and with parents whose visitation rights are regulated by judgment, court decision, or agreement. Such a decision can be appealed. Contact with other persons can be regulated according to Section 11 of the LVU, but such decisions are not appealable according to Section 41 of the LVU.
Restriction of contact under section 14 LVU
Section 14 of the LVU gives the Social Welfare Board the right to regulate contact with guardians and with parents whose visitation rights are already regulated by judgment, court decision, or agreement, when necessary for the purpose of care. The same section can be used to keep the child's location confidential. The decision can be appealed. Limitation of contact with other persons can instead be made according to Section 11, and such decisions are not appealable according to Section 41 of the LVU.
Contact is the child's need – not a reward for adults
The assessment should be based on the child's best interests, the purpose of care, and the child's views based on age and maturity. Limited visitation should not be used as punishment for conflict with social services. At the same time, contact may need to be regulated if it poses a risk, is a significant burden, or complicates care.
When is a formal decision required?
Practical planning of times is not always an appealable restriction decision. But when the board restricts contact against a party's will with the support of Section 14, you should request:
- a written decision,
- the concrete reasons and legal basis,
- the extent and time period applicable,
- when the need will be reconsidered,
- how the decision can be appealed.
The Social Welfare Board must reconsider at least once every three months whether a decision on restriction or confidential location is still necessary. This is not the same as the decision automatically ceasing after three months.
Proportionality: is this restriction necessary?
A good approach does not only consider “contact or no contact.” Consider less intrusive alternatives:
- shorter but more frequent meetings,
- visitation with support or supervision,
- neutral location,
- phone or video calls between physical meetings,
- contact through letters or mediated messages,
- gradual expansion with clear criteria.
Request that the board explain why a less intrusive arrangement is not sufficient to protect the child or carry out the care.
Confidential location
The Social Welfare Board can decide not to disclose where the child is located if it is necessary for the purpose of care. It is an intrusive measure and should be assessed individually. Ask what specific risk makes less extensive protection insufficient and how information about the child's health, school, and daily life will be provided without disclosing the address.
The Supreme Administrative Court has stated that strong reasons are required to keep a child's location confidential from a parent (HFD 2017 ref. 39).
A confidential address does not automatically mean that all information about the child can be withheld. Request a secure communication channel and regular updates within the framework of applicable confidentiality and the child's needs.
How to appeal the decision
A decision under Section 14 regarding visitation or a concealed place of residence can be appealed to the administrative court. Follow the deadline and address in the decision's appeal instructions.
A focused appeal includes:
- the date of the decision and the case number,
- the change you are requesting,
- why the current restriction is no longer necessary or is too extensive,
- a concrete alternative that ensures the child's protection,
- documentation on the implementation of visitation and current conditions.
If necessary, request an interim decision, meaning that the court temporarily decides what should apply during the proceedings. Discuss the conditions with your legal representative.
The child's own rights and voice
The child should receive relevant information and be heard. A child who has reached the age of 15 can represent themselves and can appeal independently. Children under 15 cannot appeal on their own. A public representative is not automatically appointed in cases of visitation restrictions under Section 14. The child's position is important but not solely decisive; the assessment also includes protection, maturity, and the purpose of care.
If contact does not work in practice
Distinguish between a legal decision and practical shortcomings. If the placement repeatedly cancels meetings without a new decision, document the dates and reasons and request that the social welfare board clarify how it ensures the decided visitation. IVO can receive information about shortcomings in placement or the social services' follow-up, but a formal Section 14 decision is challenged through an appeal.
Frequently asked questions
Do parents have the right to a certain number of hours?
No. The extent is assessed individually based on the child and the purpose of care.
Can the social services read all communication?
It depends on the placement, legal basis, and what specific powers apply. Restrictions must be supported by law and be proportionate.
Can the decision remain without a new ruling?
The social welfare board makes the decision and must consider the need at least every three months. You can appeal the decision to the administrative court.
Sources and related information
- Custodians' rights under LVU
- Appeal or revoke LVU
- LVU Sections 14, 36, and 41
- HFD 2017 ref. 39: strong reasons for a concealed place of residence
- IVO: contact with placed child
Last fact-checked: September 26, 2026.
