Voter’s notification

A voter’s notification informs those eligible to vote that they have been entered in the voters’ register. The notification contains information on

the date of the election,
polling hours,
the location of the polling station,
whether the polling station is accessible, and
the option to apply for a polling card to be issued together with postal ballot documents.

Basically, persons entitled to vote may cast their votes at the indicated polling station only. They may, however, apply for a polling card so that they can vote by post or go to another polling station of their administrative district or town (for example, in case “their” polling station is not accessible).

Generally, voters prove that they are entitled to vote at a specific polling station by presenting their voter's notifications there. Nevertheless, you should also have your identity card or passport ready to present it if required. The electoral board may keep the voter’s notification.

Legal bases

Sections 18, 24, 49 (3) of the European Electoral Regulations (EuWO)

When will I receive my voter’s notification?

The municipal authorities send out the voter’s notifications about 4 to 6 weeks before election. You should have received your voter’s notification by the 21^st day before election (= 19 May 2024).

Legal basis

Section 18 (1), first sentence, of the European Electoral Regulations (EuWO)

What can I do if I have not received a voter’s notification?

If you have not received a voter’s notification by the 21^st day before election (= 19 May 2024) we would recommend that you contact your municipality to find out if you have been duly entered into the voters’ register.

From the 20^th to the 16^th day before election (= 20 till 24 May 2024) on workdays you may also inspect the voters’ register of your municipality to check whether your data have been entered correctly and completely. You may lodge a complaint during that period if you think that the information entered is not correct or incomplete.

Legal bases

Section 4 of the European Elections Act (EuWG) in conjunction with Section 17 (1) of the Federal Elections Act (BWG)
Sections 20, 21 of the European Electoral Regulations (EuWO)

Can I vote without a voter’s notification?

Yes, if you are listed in the voters’ register.

If you have received a voter’s notification you may assume that you have been entered in the voters’ register. You will be allowed to vote even if you do not bring your voter’s notification to the polling station. However, you will have to prove your identity by showing your identity card or passport.

However, if you have not received a voter’s notification, you may not have been entered in the voters’ register. In that case the electoral board has to turn you away and you will not be allowed to vote.

Those who have not received a voter’s notification until the 21^st day before the election (= 19 May 2024) should therefore definitely contact the municipality in charge and maybe consult the voters’ register (see “What can I do if I have not received a voter’s notification?”).

Legal basis

Section 49 (1), (6), first sentence, number 1 of the European Electoral Regulations (EuWO)