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Guide for internationals: who can vote and how?

On March 18th 2026, the municipal elections, will take place. Did you know that many internationals living in the Netherlands are allowed to vote in these elections? Here’s everything you need to know about whether you can vote and how to do it, so you can help shape Utrecht for the next four years.

05.03.2026
D66

Can I vote in the municipal elections?

If you are a citizen of an EU member state and you live in the Netherlands, you are allowed to vote in municipal elections. Not an EU citizen? You can still vote in Utrecht on March 18th, if you have been legally living in the Netherlands for at least five consecutive years.

You can only vote in the municipality where you are registered. So to vote in Utrecht, your registered address must be in the municipality of Utrecht. If you’re registered somewhere else in the Netherlands, you can vote there instead!

In short, you can vote in Utrecht if:

  • You are 18 years older on March 18th, 2026
  • You are registered as a resident of Utrecht
  • You are EU citizen, or you have been legally living in the Netherlands for at least 5 consecutive years as of February 2nd, 2026

How do I vote?

Good news: you don’t need to register to vote. If you’re eligible, you’ll automatically receive a voting pass (stempas) by post, about two weeks before the elections.

On March 18th, bring your voting pass and a valid ID to any polling station in Utrecht . You can vote at any location in the municipality.

Lost your voting pass? No problem! You can request a replacement from the municipality’s service desk until March 17th at noon.

What are the elections about?

By voting, you help elect the 45 members of Utrecht’s city council. They represent the people of Utrecht and make decisions that affect your daily life: from the upkeep of bike lanes and waste collection to housing development, social programs, and public safety. The municipality has its own budget and real power over these areas, so your vote really counts.

What does D66 stand for?

D66 has always been a party with strong international roots. We believe Utrecht is at its best when everyone, immigrants, international students, and expats, feels like a full and valued member of our city. That means making sure internationals can easily connect with the city council and have a real say in how we shape Utrecht together.

Because internationals aren’t outsiders. Like every other Utrechter, you have a stake in a green, equal, and fair city.

These are our priorities for these elections:

  • 100.000 new homes: A home of their own for everyone. We will push ahead with building.
  • Utrecht safe and free. Day and night. A city where women and LGBTQ+ people can feel safe on their streets.
  • A vibrant city. From Bad Bunny to Bach. A new concert venue and permanent festival site for Utrecht.
  • Utrecht without waiting lists. Easy access to good education, sports, culture and healthcare.
  • A green street for every Utrecht resident. With playgrounds, sports fields, parks and trees.
Please read our entire election program in English here
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