You can apply to vote by post if you cannot get to a polling station for any reason.
Applications must be made by 5pm on Tuesday 21 April 2026. If an application is made after deadline, you will not be able to vote by post for that election.
There is a strict deadline for the receipt of postal vote applications prior to an election. Once an arrangement is set up, the postal voting packs are sent to you by first class post. For those people who apply on or shortly before the deadline, the voting packs will typically be received one week before polling day. If you believe that the deadline is unachievable then we suggest that you appoint a proxy to vote on your behalf at your polling station.
When your postal vote has been created, you will not be able to vote at the polling station. You will receive a 'postal poll card' confirming your postal vote at the forthcoming election.
Postal ballot packs should be received approximately 10 days before an election, depending on when you applied. This is an important consideration for people who need to vote from an overseas address, for whom a postal vote may not be the most suitable arrangement. You may wish to consider appointing a proxy instead, or contact the election team by emailing to discuss the best option for your situation.
Contact your local Electoral Services office If you wish to complete a paper form.
