Request an absentee ballot
Requesting absentee ballot materials for federal, state, or local elections from the election office.
How to proceed
- 1
Request an absentee ballot
Online, by mail, or in person at the election office, providing your voter registration number (found on your voter registration card).
- 2
Receive the materials and fill out the ballot
In the voting booth at home, free from outside influence.
- 3
Return the absentee ballot by mail or drop it off by the deadline
Must be received by the election office by 6:00 p.m. on Election Day.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
2 days
Official: max. 3 days
Online application
Online possible – at the responsible authority
Common mistakes
- • Application submitted too late (return is no longer possible in time)
- • Voter forgot to sign the ballot
Common reasons for rejection
- • Application received after the statutory deadline
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Voters who are unable or unwilling to cast their ballots in person at the polling place.
Income limit
The limit varies by household and region – see the table at the responsible authority or in the application assistant.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. 2 days
Success rate
approx. 99.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Application submitted too late (return is no longer possible in time)
- •Voter forgot to sign the ballot
Common reasons for rejection
- •Application received after the statutory deadline
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
Read the decision carefully: often submitting missing documents or reapplying helps more than an objection.
Questions & Answers
Can I pick up absentee ballot materials for someone else?▼
Yes, with a written power of attorney from the eligible voter.