Municipal council elections 2026: how they work (and why your vote matters)

On 18 March 2026, it’s that time again: residents of the municipality of Maastricht will vote to elect members of the municipal council. Here’s everything you need to know to head to the polling station well prepared.

How is the municipality organised?

Every municipality has a municipal council, a mayor and a municipal executive. Municipal council elections are held once every 4 years. By voting, you help decide who represents your interests.

The municipal council

The council is made up of members from various political parties. They decide on local policies and regulations, covering topics such as housing, waste, transport and safety. The council also oversees the work of the mayor and aldermen.

The municipal executive (mayor and other members)

Parties that hold enough seats form a coalition and nominate the members of the municipal executive, who are then officially appointed by the council. The municipal executive carries out plans, monitors policy and works closely with the council.
 

Election Day: 18 March 2026
 

On Wednesday 18 March 2026, residents of Maastricht aged 18 or older can vote. Polling stations will be open from 07:30 to 21:00 across the city. Some polling stations may have different hours. Full details can be found at www.gemeentemaastricht.nl/verkiezingen
and in the leaflet that comes with your voting pass.


Why do we have elections?

The Netherlands is a democracy, which means citizens have a say in who makes decisions. Since it’s not practical to ask everyone directly, we vote for representatives to speak and act on our behalf. Your vote helps shape the future of your street, your neighbourhood, and your city.
 

Why your vote matters


Your vote determines who joins the municipal council – and who will help shape decisions about your living environment. Whether it’s housing, green spaces, sports facilities or safety in your area: voting makes a real difference.


How do the elections work?
 

  • You can vote if you live in Maastricht and are 18 or older on election day. EU nationals may vote if they meet the legal requirements. Non-EU nationals can vote if they have lived legally in the Netherlands for five years or more. You must not be excluded from the right to vote.

  • Your poll card will arrive by post no later than 2 March. Didn’t receive one? You can request a replacement at the GemeenteLoket by 12:00 on 17 March – please bring valid ID. Online applications are also possible. By 13 March, you’ll receive the candidate list, which includes all parties and candidates, plus the polling station closest to you.
     

  • Polling stations are the official places where you vote – these may be located in schools, care homes, community centres or at the train station. You may vote at any polling station in Maastricht. Opening hours are listed online and with your poll card. The website also states whether a location is accessible with a walker or wheelchair.
     

  • Bring your poll card and ID. At the polling station, you’ll receive a ballot paper. Can’t vote in person? You can authorise someone else to vote on your behalf. Instructions are printed on your poll card.
     

  • After 21:00, the votes are counted. The number of seats each party receives depends on how many votes they get. Maastricht has 39 council seats. Candidates with the most votes within each party take those seats.
     

Good to know

Vote consciously. Think about which issues matter most to you – housing, green spaces, sport, safety – and choose a party that aligns with your views. Tools like Kieskompas and Stemwijzer can help you decide.

If you vote for more than one candidate, your vote is invalid. You can also submit a blank vote by handing in an unmarked ballot.

Assistance is available at polling stations for people with physical disabilities.

The more people who vote, the more accurately the council reflects Maastricht’s population. It's important that people of all ages, neighbourhoods, and backgrounds are represented.

Tips
 

Try Kieskompas
or Stemwijzer
to see which political party fits your views best.

Not confident in Dutch yet? Visit steffie.nl
for clear, simple explanations about voting and how the government works.