Constitutional referendum 2026: voting by Italians residing abroad
By decree of the President of the Republic dated 13 January 2026, published in the Official Gazette on 14 January 2026, a referendum was called on the constitutional law entitled «Rules on the judicial system and the establishment of the Disciplinary Court». Voting will take place on Sunday 22 and Monday 23 March 2026. Italians residing abroad and those temporarily outside Italy can also take part in the vote. The voting method provided is postal voting. Voters receive the electoral package directly at their registered foreign address. The material includes the ballot paper, a form with personal details, and three envelopes, one of which is already stamped for return to the relevant consulate. It is essential to check personal registry data and update the address with the competent consular office, also through the Fast It portal of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Who Can Vote Abroad and the Option to Vote in Italy
All Italian citizens registered with AIRE, the Registry of Italians Living Abroad, can vote abroad under Law No. 459 of 2001. Moreover, postal voting also applies to those temporarily abroad. This group includes workers, students, and people abroad for medical treatment. To qualify, the stay abroad must last at least three months. Importantly, the period must include the referendum dates. The electoral package must then be returned to the consulate no later than ten days before the vote.
Postal Voting Request and Deadlines to Respect
Voters temporarily abroad must send a request to the Italian municipality where they are registered to vote. Specifically, the deadline is February 18, 2026. The request may be sent by regular mail, while non-certified email is also accepted. Alternatively, hand delivery is possible, even through a delegate. The request should indicate the foreign address where the electoral package will be sent. It must also declare compliance with legal requirements and confirm that the period abroad includes the referendum dates. Finally, a copy of a valid identity document must be attached. An official downloadable form exists, although it is not mandatory. Getting informed early is essential, since errors or delays may prevent voting. Understanding the rules and deadlines helps citizens exercise their voting rights even while abroad.
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