Voting and electoral rights

Swiss voting documents
Swiss voting documents © FDFA, Presence Switzerland

Swiss citizens living abroad can exercise their political rights if they:

  • have officially emigrated to another country
  • are at least 18 years old and
  • are registered with a Swiss representation.

They can vote on federal issues and participate in National Council elections without having to travel to Switzerland.  

Participation in cantonal votes and elections is regulated in the legislation of each canton and is possible in the following cantons:

Please enquire at your communal authority about the possibility of Swiss citizens living abroad participating in cantonal votes and elections.

Further information on the political system, current and upcoming votes is available at: ch.ch: