Notes from the Federal Palace APOLLINE SIX, CONSULAR DIRECTORATE, FDFA When someone entered in the register of the Swiss Abroad as a minor reaches legal age under Swiss law, the competent representation (embassy or consulate) will ask them to confirm their entry in the register, in accordance with Article 12(3) of the Swiss Abroad Act (SAA). To this end, they will receive an official letter asking them to confirm their registration, either by post or directly via the FDFA’s online office. Before they reach legal age, the young Swiss Abroad are registered under their parents’ names. An essential step that is often neglected This step is crucial to ensure that young people can avail themselves fully of their rights, including their political rights. More broadly, being registered with a representation grants access to a wide array of official information, consular services and opportunities connected with Switzerland. This includes the ability to participate in federal elections, receive the “Swiss Review” and carry out certain administrative processes remotely. Every year, however, many young Swiss Abroad fail to confirm their registration in time and are struck off the official registers. Young Swiss Abroad, at an OSA holiday camp, visiting the Federal Palace and meeting representatives of the Consular Directorate. Photo provided Young Swiss Abroad: maintaining ties When they reach legal age, young Swiss Abroad are called upon to confirm their individual registration with their competent Swiss representation (embassy or consulate). This process, which is essential if they are to retain the entirety of their rights, is too often neglected, which can have serious consequences in the long term. Every year many young Swiss Abroad fail to confirm their personal registration and are struck off the register. Confirming your registration is more than a simple administrative formality: it is a way of staying connected to Switzerland. 30 Swiss Review / July 2026 / No. 3
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