Introduction

Registered electors can now choose to vote at any election (Local or UK/European Parliamentary) by post. You can request a postal vote for a specific election, for all elections or a set time period. Postal votes are normally delivered 10 days before polling day.

[back to top]

Who can apply for a postal vote?

Anyone who is on the published register of electors or who has applied to be added as part of the monthly update process can apply for a postal vote.

[back to top]

If you are not registered to vote

You can check to see if you are on the register of electors by contacting Electoral Services. If you are not registered then you can apply by completing a register to vote form. Please select the 'Register to vote' page. You can now join the electoral register throughout the year as part of the monthly update process, but to be able to vote in an election year you normally need to be registered by mid-April (11 working days before polling day).

[back to top]

How to apply for a postal vote

Complete the Postal Voting application form. Each person requiring a postal vote must fill in a form.

Postal Vote Application Form

[back to top]

Returning your form

The Postal Vote form should be posted to the following freepost address. No stamp is required.

Electoral Services
FREEPOST (NAT 11762)
Bristol
BS1 5BR

or faxed to 0117 922 3461

[back to top]

What happens after I have applied?

Provided there is enough time before the election (the current deadline is 11 working days before polling day) you will receive a confirmation that your application has been received.

People living in the UK will be supplied with a first class post prepaid envelope to return their ballot paper together with instructions explaining how to complete it. Overseas voters will have to pay the return postage for their vote. Everyone needs to ensure that they leave sufficient time (the Royal Mail recommend 48 hours) for it to be returned to reach Electoral Services by polling day.

[back to top]

Contact details

Electoral Services
The Exchange,
Corn Street Bristol
BS1 5TR

Telephone: (0117) 922 3790
Fax: 0117 922 3461
E-mail: registertovote@bristol.gov.uk

Office opening hours:
Monday to Thursday 9am to 4:30pm
Friday 9am to 4pm

[back to top]