LONDON: British citizens residing abroad can now register to vote in UK general elections without any time restrictions. The new law removed the previous 15-year limit.
The British High Commission Islamabad is actively supporting the Electoral Commission’s awareness campaign, encouraging British residents in Pakistan to verify their eligibility for voting. The Electoral Commission, an independent and impartial organization overseeing UK elections, is promoting this initiative.
Former UK residents or those previously registered to vote in the UK can now exercise their voting rights in UK parliamentary elections. Registration is accessible online at www.gov.uk/registertovote, with a requirement to confirm personal information every three years. Individuals listed on a UK electoral register are also considered permissible donors to UK political parties and campaigners.
The British High Commission Spokesperson remarked, “Recent changes in UK law extend voting eligibility for more British citizens living abroad in UK Parliament elections. It’s crucial to raise awareness about these changes so that eligible individuals can register and participate in future ballots.”
The spokesperson added, “If you or someone you know used to reside in the UK, inform them about their potential to have a say in the next UK general election. Registration takes just five minutes and can be conveniently done online at gov.uk/registertovote. Additionally, online applications are now accepted for postal or proxy voting.”
Applicants must furnish details of their last registered or residential address and the corresponding timeframe. Local authorities will verify the applicant’s identity and past connection to the area.
The Electoral Commission’s website provides more information, and overseas voters can find contact details for their relevant local council using the Commission’s postcode lookup tool, based on the last UK residence.
Resources for raising awareness are readily available on the Commission’s website, aiding the dissemination of information about these voting eligibility changes.
