StaatsNavigator
Miscellaneous

Apply for a voting card

Applying for an absentee ballot at the election office, which entitles the voter to cast a ballot in a different voting district or by mail.

Processing: 3 days
Online application possibleSuccess rate: 99.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Submit an application to the election office

    Online, in writing, or in person, providing your voter registration number.

  2. 2

    Receive your voter registration card and absentee ballot materials

    By mail or for pickup.

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

3 days

Official: max. approx. 1 weeks

Online application

Online possible – at the responsible authority

Common mistakes

  • Election notice was misplaced, resulting in a delay in filing the application

Common reasons for rejection

  • Missed the application deadline (usually 6 p.m. on the Friday before the election)

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

Voters who are unable to vote at their polling place on Election Day or who wish to vote by mail.

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. 3 days

Success rate

approx. 99.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • Election notice was misplaced, resulting in a delay in filing the application

Common reasons for rejection

  • Missed the application deadline (usually 6 p.m. on the Friday before the election)

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.

Related services

Read more