A record 135,424 Dutch citizens living abroad have registered to vote in the October 29 general election, almost 25% more than in 2023, when 109,436 signed up.

The increase means that votes cast outside the Netherlands are now equivalent to two seats in the 150-member Tweede Kamer, the lower house of parliament. It is the first time that the vote of Dutch expats will have carried this much weight.

Eelco Keij, chairman of the foundation representing Dutch citizens abroad (SNBN), said the development was “historic.” In the fragmented political landscape, even a single seat “can be decisive for the direction of a new government,” he said.

The registration deadline has passed, but temporary voters such as military personnel and students can still register until October 1. Ballot papers for postal voters will be sent out from September 30.

The Hague city council is responsible for organising the overseas vote. Registered voters who have not received their voting documents can apply until October 17 for a replacement certificate, which is sent by email.

Last year around 1,000 votes arrived too late to be counted and the SNBN has long campaigned for online voting.

The GroenLinks/PvdA alliance emerged as the biggest party under Dutch expats in 2023, with 28.6% of the vote.