A2 KNM: Elections & Political Parties
The Netherlands uses a proportional representation system. Every vote counts toward seats in parliament. Elections for the Tweede Kamer are held every 4 y...
Reviewed against official sources - Updated 2026-05-10
The Netherlands uses a proportional representation system. Every vote counts toward seats in parliament. Elections for the Tweede Kamer are held every 4 years (or earlier if the government falls). There are many political parties representing different viewpoints from left to right.
| Dutch | English | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Verkiezingen | Elections | Voting day is usually on Wednesday |
| Stemmen | To vote | At a polling station with ID |
| Stembureau | Polling station | Usually schools, community centers |
| Stempas | Voting pass | Sent to your home before elections |
| Coalitie | Coalition | Parties that form government together |
| Oppositie | Opposition | Parties not in government |
Examples
- Wanneer mag je stemmen in Nederland?
- When may you vote in the Netherlands?
- Je mag stemmen vanaf 18 jaar.
- You may vote from age 18.
- Neem je stempas en ID mee.
- Bring your voting pass and ID.
- De verkiezingen zijn om de vier jaar.
- Elections are every four years.
Study note
As a naturalized Dutch citizen, you can vote in all elections. As a non-EU resident who has lived in the Netherlands for 5+ years, you can vote in municipal (gemeente) elections only. Voting is not mandatory but is seen as an important civic duty.
Practice after reading
Train A2 knowledge of Dutch society with timed KNM practice questions.
