British citizens living abroad are now eligible to register to vote in UK general elections, regardless of how long they’ve been living outside the UK. A new law has removed the previous 15-year time limit.
Supporting the awareness raising campaign of the Electoral Commission, Derby City Council is calling on residents to spread the word and to tell friends and family living abroad to check if they are eligible.
Those that have previously lived in or been registered to vote in the UK now have the right to vote in UK parliament elections. They can register online at gov.uk/registertovote and will need to confirm their personal information every three years. Anyone on a UK electoral register is also considered a permissible donor to UK political parties and campaigners.
Emily Feenan, Returning Officer at Derby City Council, said:
“This change means that more British citizens living abroad who previously lived in Derby may now be eligible to register to vote and vote in this area. If you know anyone who used to live locally and is now living abroad, spread the word so they are aware of their rights.
“If they want to have their say at the next election, they need to be registered. It only takes five minutes and can be done online at gov.uk/registertovote. It’s also now possible to apply online to vote by post or by proxy.
We will contact currently registered overseas voters when it’s time to renew their registration – they don’t need to reapply.”
The government estimates that the abolishment of the 15-year rule could mean three million more British citizens could be eligible to vote.
Applicants will need to provide details of the address and time they were last registered or resident. Derby City Council must be able to verify an applicant’s identity and past connection to the area.
Many voters living abroad choose to vote by post or proxy. Applications for absent votes can now also be done online.
If you have any questions about registering as an overseas voter please email elections@derby.gov.uk.