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  5. How to apply for a postal vote

How to apply for a postal vote

Anybody can choose to vote by post instead of at a polling place.

How to apply for a postal vote depends on the type of election

UK Parliamentary Election  - You can apply for a postal vote online for a UK Parliamentary election (opens new window) ONLY.   Applying for a postal vote online will NOT give you a postal vote for all elections.  You can also complete a postal vote application form (opens new window) to get a postal vote

Scottish Parliamentary and council elections - You will need to complete a postal vote application form (opens new window) to get a postal vote.  Send your completed application form to The Electoral Registration Officer, 17a South Gyle Crescent, Edinburgh, EH12 9FL.  

All elections - You will need to complete a postal vote application form (opens new window) to get a postal vote for all election types.  Send your completed application form to The Electoral Registration Officer, 17a South Gyle Crescent, Edinburgh, EH12 9FL

The deadline for a postal vote application for a particular election is 11 working days before the election date . 

Postal ballot packs should start to be delivered around 9 working days before the election, however WE CANNOT GUARANTEE THAT YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR POSTAL VOTE ON OR BEFORE A CERTAIN DATE.

Legislation allows a replacement postal vote to be issued for one which has not been received (lost).    If you are going on holiday close to the date that you expect your postal vote to be delivered then you may wish to consider appointing a proxyinstead of using a postal vote. 

You can get a replacement for a lost or spoilt postal ballot.  You will need to collect it and provide identification.  Contact the election office to make the necessary arrangements. 

If you are getting a replacement for a spoilt postal ballot you will need to return all the parts of your original postal ballot pack. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I qualify for a postal/absent vote?

You no longer need to have a reason to obtain a postal vote and you can register to vote by post at any time (there is no need to wait for an election to be called).