Question 28 of 350 · Elections and popular votes
From what age are Swiss citizens entitled to vote and elect at federal level?
Ab wann sind Schweizerinnen und Schweizer auf Bundesebene stimm- und wahlberechtigt?
Correct answer: A
Why
At 18 you are of legal age. Since 1991 you may vote and elect at federal level from this age.
Common mistakes
- B: from 21
- 21 years applied in the past. Since the popular vote of 1991 it has been 18 years.
- D: from 16
- A voting age of 16 exists only in the canton of Glarus, and only for the canton and municipality, not for the Confederation.
Topic
Who may vote in elections and popular votes?
At federal level, only people who have Swiss citizenship and are at least 18 years old may have a say. These people are called voters (Stimmberechtigte). Where you were born, how much tax you pay or whether you have a criminal record does not matter. Only a few adults are excluded: those who permanently cannot decide for themselves because of a serious mental illness or disability.
Having a say: rights and obligations · Elections and popular votes
Sources
Official question of the Canton of Zurich (Gemeindeamt, May 2025). Translation and explanation: Swiss Passport.