Absent Vote reapplication forms

Introduction

Absent Vote reapplication forms have now been sent to electors if their postal voting arrangement, is due to expire on 31 January 2026.

All postal voters who made their current application before 31 October 2023 are required to reapply for their postal vote by 31 January 2026.

If an elector has provided an email address, either when they previously applied for an absent vote or for any other response to their electoral registration, a form was sent by email from Tuesday 6 January 2026.

If an elector has not provided an email address, either when they previously applied for an absent vote or for any other response to their electoral registration, a form was sent by post on Thursday 15 January 2026.

How to respond

Online

You can now apply to vote by post online. You will need your National Insurance number to hand when applying to vote by post and be able to upload a photo or scanned image of your handwritten signature in black or blue ink on plain white paper.

If you are unable to provide a consistent signature due to disability or inability to read or write, you can apply for a postal vote waiver. This can be done online or by contacting Electoral Services for an application form.

If you respond online, please do not return the form by post.

Post

If you cannot respond online, please complete the form and post back to us using the pre-paid envelope provided.

You should reapply as soon as possible to ensure that your absent vote remains in place. If you do not reapply, your postal vote will expire on 31 January 2026. If your postal vote expires, you will need to vote in person at your local polling station in future or apply for a new postal vote before the next election.