An electromagnetic actuating device (10) has an energizable stationary spool element (1) having a stationary core area (2), an anchor unit (3) moveable relative to the spool elements (1) and the core area (2) and has permanent magnet elements (4) and a pestle (5) disposed on one end and having a free end section (5a) for engaging in an actuating partner, the anchor unit (3) being moveable along a longitudinal movement axis (L) in at least two actuating positions (A,B), and the actuator (10) having retaining elements (7) which are spaced apart from the core area, are permanent-magnetically flux-conductive and are formed in such a manner in a third actuating position (C) between the first and second actuating positions (A,B) for interacting with the permanent magnet elements (4) of the anchor unit (3) that the anchor unit is retained in a third actuating position (C) between the first and second actuating positions (A,B) and/or exerts a predefined force potential towards the actuating partner.