From 16 January 2024 and the removal of the 15-year limit, if you are a British National living overseas, who has previously lived in the UK or been registered to vote in the UK, you are entitled to vote in UK general elections.

Overseas electors cannot vote at local government elections. If you are in the armed forces or crown personnel this does not apply to you.

If you have never been registered as an elector in the UK, you will not be eligible to register as an overseas voter. However, if you left the UK before you were 18-years of age you can register at your parents or guardians address, provided that they were registered.

You can register as an overseas voter at GOV.UK (opens in a new window)

Overseas electors should also apply to vote by post or proxy. Postal votes are sent out approximately one to two weeks before polling day (depending on when you made your application), so if you are not likely to be able to receive and return a postal vote in that time, we would always advise you to consider appointing a proxy.