Apply to vote by proxy if you're living overseas
If you're a British citizen living overseas, then you can apply to vote by proxy.
Documents
Details
Before you apply
You can ask anyone to act as your proxy, as long as they are registered to vote and it’s for a type of election they’re allowed to vote in.
How to apply for a proxy vote
There are different forms, depending on why you can’t get to the polling station. Make sure you complete the right one.
You may be able to apply for an emergency proxy vote if the deadline to apply for a proxy vote has passed.
Where to send your form
Send the completed form to your local Electoral Registration Office.
Other ways to apply
You can apply online to vote by proxy.
Updates to this page
Last updated 16 January 2024 + show all updates
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Updated to remove “for a particular election or referendum” from the introduction because the law has changed regarding proxy voting.
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You can now apply online to vote by proxy. The law has changed regarding people who can be proxies. The paper forms have been updated by the Electoral Commission.
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If you are registered to vote and want to vote by proxy in the 5 May 2022 elections, you must submit a proxy vote application form that is received by your local Electoral Registration Office before 5pm on Tuesday 26 April 2022.
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Page updated to remove "If you are registered to vote and want to vote by proxy in the 6 May 2021 elections, you must submit a proxy vote application form that is received by your local Electoral Registration Office before 5pm on Tuesday 27 April." This information does not apply to this page.
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If you are registered to vote and want to vote by proxy in the 6 May 2021 elections, you must submit a proxy vote application form that is received by your local Electoral Registration Office before 5pm on Tuesday 27 April.
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Attachments updated.
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Forms updated with new data protection guidance.
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Information added to explain that it's now too late to apply by poxy for the 3 May elections.
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First published.