Wie Lang Kann Man Briefwahl Beantragen

Hallo! Planning a trip to Germany, or maybe settling in for a short stay? If you happen to be here during an election, you might be wondering about Briefwahl, or postal voting. It’s a fantastic way to participate in German democracy, even if you're not going to be in your registered place of residence on election day. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about how long you can apply for postal voting in Germany.

What is Briefwahl?

Let's start with the basics. Briefwahl, literally translated as "letter election," is the German term for postal voting. It allows eligible voters to cast their ballot by mail instead of going to a physical polling station. This is particularly useful if you are ill, disabled, traveling, or simply unavailable to vote in person on election day. It’s a simple and convenient process designed to encourage widespread participation in elections.

The Application Period: Key Dates and Deadlines

Now, let's get to the crucial question: How long can you apply for postal voting? The application period isn't fixed in stone; it depends on the specific election and the regulations of the individual Bundesland (federal state). However, there are some general guidelines and deadlines to keep in mind.

General Timeframe

Typically, the application process for postal voting begins several weeks before the election. You can usually expect to be able to apply as soon as the official election announcement (Wahlbekanntmachung) is published. This announcement is often made 4 to 6 weeks before the election date. Therefore, keep an eye out for official announcements from your local authorities or on the official election website for your Bundesland.

The Absolute Deadline: Don't Miss It!

The absolute deadline for applying for postal voting is generally Friday before election day, at 6:00 PM. This is the most important rule of thumb to remember. Mark it in your calendar! After this deadline, it becomes significantly more difficult, if not impossible, to obtain postal voting documents. There are, however, exceptions which we'll discuss later.

Important note: While the official deadline is Friday at 6:00 PM, it’s highly recommended to apply much earlier. Applying close to the deadline leaves very little room for error or delays in the mail. Processing applications and sending out ballot papers takes time, and you want to ensure that you receive your documents with enough time to complete and return them.

Why Apply Early?

There are several compelling reasons to apply for Briefwahl well in advance:

• Peace of mind: Applying early eliminates the stress of rushing to meet the deadline.
• Sufficient time to vote: You'll have ample time to carefully read the ballot and make informed choices.
• Avoid postal delays: Postal services can be unpredictable, especially around election time. Applying early gives your ballot enough time to reach the authorities.
• Potential issues: If there are any problems with your application or documents, you'll have time to resolve them.

How to Apply for Briefwahl

Applying for Briefwahl is usually a straightforward process. Here are the common methods:

Online Application

Many cities and municipalities offer online application portals. This is often the quickest and easiest method. To apply online, you'll typically need your Wahlbenachrichtigung (election notification card), which you should receive in the mail a few weeks before the election. This card contains your electoral register number (Wählernummer) and other information needed to verify your identity.

Look for a link to the online application portal on your city or municipality's website. The website will often be in German; look for terms like "Briefwahl beantragen" or "Antrag auf Briefwahl". You’ll be prompted to enter your personal details and your electoral register number. Once submitted, your application will be processed, and the ballot papers will be sent to your registered address.

Written Application

You can also apply for Briefwahl by sending a written request to your local electoral office (Wahlamt). The address of your Wahlamt is usually printed on your Wahlbenachrichtigung. Your written application should include the following information:

• Your full name (Vorname und Nachname)
• Your date of birth (Geburtsdatum)
• Your address (Wohnanschrift)
• Your electoral register number (Wählernummer) - found on your Wahlbenachrichtigung

You should sign and date your application. You can send your application by post or deliver it in person to the Wahlamt.

In-Person Application

In some cases, you can apply for Briefwahl in person at your local Wahlamt. You'll need to bring your Wahlbenachrichtigung and your identification card (Personalausweis or Reisepass). You may even be able to vote directly at the Wahlamt after submitting your application.

Special Circumstances and Exceptions

As mentioned earlier, the Friday 6:00 PM deadline is generally strict. However, there are exceptions in certain exceptional circumstances. If you are suddenly unable to vote in person due to illness or other unforeseen reasons (such as a sudden hospitalization) *after* the deadline, you may still be able to apply for Briefwahl. In these cases, you'll typically need to provide evidence of your inability to vote in person, such as a medical certificate.

Contact your local Wahlamt immediately if you find yourself in such a situation. They will advise you on the necessary steps and documentation.

It's also worth noting that if you are registered as a voter in Germany but are living abroad permanently, different regulations may apply. You should contact the relevant German embassy or consulate in your country of residence for information on how to vote.

Receiving and Returning Your Ballot Papers

Once your application is approved, you'll receive a package containing the following:

• Ballot paper(s) (Stimmzettel)
• A ballot envelope (Stimmzettelumschlag)
• A return envelope (Wahlbriefumschlag) pre-addressed to the Wahlamt
• Instructions on how to vote (Merkblatt)

Carefully read the instructions before marking your ballot. Fill out the ballot paper according to the instructions, place it in the ballot envelope, seal the envelope, and then place the sealed envelope in the pre-addressed return envelope. Sign the declaration on the return envelope (this is to confirm that you are the person casting the vote) and mail the envelope back to the Wahlamt. You can usually post the return envelope free of charge within Germany.

Important Tips for Returning Your Ballot

• Read the instructions carefully! Make sure you understand how to mark the ballot paper correctly.
• Don't forget to sign the declaration on the return envelope! Your vote will be invalid if you don't sign it.
• Mail your ballot back in plenty of time! It needs to arrive at the Wahlamt by 6:00 PM on election day.
• Consider delivering it in person: If you are running short on time, you can deliver the return envelope directly to the Wahlamt.

In Summary: Key Takeaways

To recap, here's what you need to know about applying for postal voting in Germany:

• The application period usually starts 4 to 6 weeks before the election.
• The absolute deadline for applying is generally Friday before election day at 6:00 PM.
• Apply early to avoid stress and potential delays.
• You can apply online, by mail, or in person.
• Special circumstances may allow for late applications, but contact your Wahlamt immediately.
• Read and follow the instructions carefully when marking and returning your ballot.

Voting is an important civic duty. With Briefwahl, it's easier than ever to participate in German democracy, even if you're only here for a short time. Enjoy your stay in Germany, and make your voice heard!