The Optional Protocol provides a time limit for initial submissions. The complaint must be submitted within one year after the exhaustion of domestic remedies, except in cases where the applicant can prove that it was impossible to do so.
A complaint is inadmissible if the same matter has already been considered by the Committee or has already been considered or is being considered under another procedure of international investigation or settlement.
The Committee may decide to invite the complainant and/or the alleged victim, as well as representatives of the State party concerned, to provide additional clarifications or answers to questions on the merits of the case in person or through video or teleconferences, if, in the opinion of the Committee, this is in the best interests of the child. All hearings are held in closed sessions. Hearings of alleged victims are not held in the presence of representatives of the State, except when requested by the alleged victims and the Committee considers that this is in the best interests of the child. At the hearings of alleged victims, the Committee guarantees the use of procedures that are in the best interests of the child and ensures that their views are given due consideration in accordance with their age and maturity.