Absent voting

You can now apply for a proxy vote up to six working days before an election.

Postal voting

You can apply for a postal vote by completing an application form. You can download the form from the GOV.UK website (external link) – once you complete this, please return it to us (see address below).You can have a postal vote instead of going to your polling station. We can send it to any address, even abroad. But, bear in mind that we must receive the ballot paper back by the day of the election.

  • You must return your postal vote application form by 5pm, 11 working days before an election or referendum
  • If you are not already registered to vote, your application to register must have reached the Electoral Registration Officer by midnight, 12 working days before the poll

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Proxy voting

You can have a proxy vote if you cannot get to the polling station on polling day. This is where you appoint somebody to vote for you. They can go along to your polling station and cast your vote.

There are different application forms (external link), depending on why you can’t get to the polling station. Make sure you complete the right one.

  • Usually, you need to apply at least 6 working days before election day

Emergency situations

In the exceptional circumstance that you are involved in an emergency situation on Election Day, you will be able to register for an emergency proxy vote by phoning 020 8489 1000 before 5pm on election day.

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Postal proxy voting

If your proxy is going to be away from home on the day of the election, they can apply for your proxy ballot paper to be posted to them.

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Further information

If you need help or further information, please contact us by:

You can also visit our electoral registration office. The office is open 8.45am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Alternatively, you can write to the Electoral Registration team at:

  • The Electoral Registration Office
    PO Box 264
    Civic Centre
    High Road
    London
    N22 8LE

More information about all forms of voting is available on the GOV.UK website (external link).

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