Can I vote in elections in Germany?
If you are not a German citizen, you cannot vote in German elections; EU citizens can vote in local and European elections. You can still take part in politics through associations, advisory councils and petitions.
German citizens: They can vote in elections to the Federal Parliament (Bundestag), the state parliament (in Berlin the Abgeordnetenhaus), the district assembly (Bezirksverordnetenversammlung) and the European Parliament.
EU citizens: EU citizens living in Germany can vote in local elections (in Berlin, the district assembly elections) and in European Parliament elections.
Non-EU citizens: Citizens of non-EU countries, including Turkey, cannot vote in any election in Germany, no matter how long they have lived here. If you become a German citizen, you gain the right to vote; since 2024 you can also keep your previous citizenship.
Elections in Turkey: If you are a Turkish citizen, you can vote in Turkish elections as an overseas voter. Your overseas address registration needs to be up to date.
Taking part without the right to vote: You can join political parties, take part in demonstrations and petitions, become a parent representative at school or a works council member (Betriebsrat), and vote in works council elections. Berlin districts also have advisory councils on migration and integration.
Where you can get help
- Handbook Germany: Almanya Seçim Sistemi
Information in Turkish on elections in Germany and who can vote.
- Handbook Germany: Vatandaşlık
Information in Turkish on the requirements for German citizenship and dual citizenship.
This information is based on community experience and is not legal advice. Rules can change; check important things with the responsible office.
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