Bundestag election 2021

Germans abroad

Only persons listed in a voters’ register may vote. Germans staying abroad who do not have a registered domicile in Germany are called German expatriates. They are not automatically entered into a voters’ register. If German expatriates wish to participate in Bundestag elections, they have to submit a written application for entry into the voters’ register before each election.

No more applications possible!

Germans living abroad who do not have a permanent place of residence in Germany can no longer apply for entry in the voters’ register. The deadline for application ended on 5 September 2021. Exceptions are made only where it can be proven that the application deadline was missed by the Germans living abroad through no fault of their own (Section 25 (2) no. 1 of the Federal Electoral Regulations).

Only temporarily abroad?

Germans who stay abroad temporarily (for instance while on a longer vacation) and still have a registered domicile in Germany will be entered ex officio into the voters’ register of their municipality. They may exercise their right to vote by postal ballot.

Eligibility to vote

Requirements for being entered in the voters’ register

Using the courier service

Further information