Foreigners living in Vienna might wonder how much say they have in shaping the city's future.
While it's true that non-Austrian EU citizens aren't eligible to vote in Vienna's municipal council elections - since Vienna uniquely serves as both a city and a federal province - you can still participate by voting for your district representatives.
These local councils handle essential neighbourhood matters, from maintaining streets, schools, and parks to organising cultural activities and addressing community issues.
When and where can I vote?
The elections will be held on Sunday, April 27th, 2025. Polling stations in Vienna will be open from 7 am until 5 pm. Around two weeks before election day, every eligible voter will receive an 'Official Election Information' letter by post, indicating their designated polling station.
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What documents do I need to take?
To vote, you'll need official photo identification such as a passport, ID card, or driving license. Remember: digital identification like your eID or digital driving license is not valid at polling stations.
Also, if you've requested a postal ballot (polling card), you must bring it with you - even if you're voting at your local station.
How do I vote at the polling station?
When you arrive, present your ID (and polling card, if you've requested one) to the election official.
If you're Austrian, you'll receive two ballot papers - one for the municipal council election and one for the district council election. EU citizens who are not Austrian nationals will receive only one ballot paper, as they can vote only in district council elections, not municipal council elections.
Once in the privacy of the polling booth, simply mark your chosen party or candidate clearly on each ballot paper. Seal each ballot paper in its envelope, then drop it into the ballot box.
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Who exactly am I voting for in Vienna?
In Vienna, the elections are twofold:
- Municipal Council elections: Here, Austrian citizens are voting for the 100-member municipal council. This council makes crucial decisions about Vienna’s budget, staffing plans, and public projects and elects the mayor and city councillors. Since Vienna is also a federal state, the municipal council also functions as the state parliament.
- District Council elections: These elect representatives who decide on local issues like maintaining schools, parks, roads, and cultural programmes. They play a crucial role in shaping everyday life in your neighbourhood.
Who can vote in these elections?
- Municipal Council: Austrian citizens aged 16 and above, with their main residence in Vienna.
- District Council: Both Austrian citizens and non-Austrian EU citizens, aged 16 and above, with their main residence in Vienna.
What if I can’t vote on election day?
If you're unable to vote on election day, you can apply for a polling card (postal ballot) until April 23rd. You can request one by email, fax, online, or in person at your local district office. Once you receive it, you can either vote early by postal ballot or use it to vote at any polling station on election day.
I have special needs. Can I still vote?
Absolutely! If you need assistance, you can bring someone along to help you fill out your ballot. Blind or visually impaired voters may also bring a guide or service dog into the polling booth.
Key dates to remember:
- April 27th, 2025: Election day (7am–5pm)
- Around mid-April: Receive your 'Official Election Information'
- April 23rd: Deadline for applying for a postal ballot if needed
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