Over 210,000 Swedish Expats Receive Voting Cards as Election Approaches

As Sweden's 2026 elections draw near, more than 210,000 Swedish citizens living abroad have been sent voting cards by the Swedish Election Authority. This move aims to empower expatriates whose votes could be decisive in the often closely contested elections. Annica Sundel, head of the Election Authority, highlighted ongoing efforts to boost participation among overseas voters, including an upcoming information campaign launching at the end of July and a newly created guide on the election website tailored for Swedes abroad.

In spring, around 82,000 expatriates who had been removed from the voter registry were contacted to encourage re-registration, acknowledging the importance of maintaining accurate voter lists. Historically, about 30% of eligible expatriate voters cast ballots. To facilitate voting, nearly 300 polling stations abroad have been established, featuring extended hours, and digital voting cards have been introduced. Voters may cast their ballots early at embassies or consulates or vote by mail, with early voting starting August 20.

However, previous elections revealed challenges: in 2022, 13% of mail-in votes from abroad were disqualified due to formal errors like missing signatures or witnesses, or improperly completed voting cards. Sundel emphasized the importance of mailing voting cards with ballots no earlier than July 30 and carefully following instructions to avoid invalidation. Additionally, overseas Swedes are reminded to register on the voter list every ten years after moving abroad to maintain voting eligibility.

These comprehensive measures underscore Sweden’s commitment to enabling its expatriates to actively participate in the democratic process.