Voter’s notification

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

the date of the election,
polling hours,
the location of the polling station,
whether access to the polling station is barrier-free 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. Upon application, however, they may receive a polling card which enables them to vote by postal ballot or go to another polling station of their constituency (for example, in case “their” polling station is not barrier-free).

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 voter's notification will be retained by the electoral board.

Legal bases

Sections 19, 25, 56 of the Federal Electoral Regulations (BWO)

When will I receive my voter’s notification?

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 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 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

Sections 21, 22 of the Federal Electoral Regulations (BWO)

Can I vote without a voter’s notification?

Yes, you can. 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 voter’s notifications should therefore definitely contact the municipality in charge.

Legal basis

Section 56 of the Federal Electoral Regulations (BWO)