Guidance for Candidates and Agents at UK Parliamentary by-elections in Great Britain

Who can apply to vote by post?

The following can apply to vote by post in UK Parliamentary elections by submitting an application to their Electoral Registration Officer (ERO):

  • a person aged 18 or over who is registered to vote
  • a person aged 18 or over who or has applied to be registered to vote
  • a person who has been appointed to vote as a proxy on behalf of someone else

The application must be received by the ERO by 5pm, 11 working days before the poll.1

The ERO has no discretion to extend the deadline for whatever reason.

Last updated: 8 January 2024