Voting by proxy

If you can’t make it to the polling station, you can appoint someone you trust to go to the polling station and vote on your behalf. This is called a 'proxy' vote.

The person you appoint as your proxy must be eligible to vote in the type of election concerned. 

They also can’t act as proxy for more than two people unless they’re a close relative (spouse, civil partner, parent, grandparent, brother, sister, child or grandchild). 

Who can apply to vote by proxy

You can apply to vote by proxy as long as you’re on the electoral register and any of the following apply:

  • you're unable to go to the polling station for one particular election, eg if you're away on holiday
  • you're unable to go to the polling station because of a physical condition or disability
  • you're unable to go to the polling station because of your employment
  • you're unable to go to the polling station because of your attendance on an educational course
  • you're a British citizen living overseas
  • you're a member of Her Majesty's Armed Forces, a Crown Servant or a British Council employee

Applying to vote by proxy

You can apply online to vote by proxy. You'll need to prove your identity when applying.

If you can't apply online, you can also download and fill in an application form. You can find this on the GOV.UK proxy voting application forms website. You’ll see that there are different forms depending on the reason that you need a proxy vote.

Your application may need to be supported by a doctor, employer or course tutor. The guidance notes that accompany the application form will explain this.

When you've filled in your form, you'll need to print it, sign it, and send it back to us as soon as possible, but before the deadline of 5pm, six working days before the date of the election. 

If you have a medical emergency after this deadline, you can apply for an emergency proxy vote up to 5pm on election day. You must give a reason why you need to vote by proxy and your application must be supported by a qualified medical professional. 

When your proxy has been approved

We’ll send a poll card to the person you've appointed to vote for you, so that they can go to the polling station on election day to cast your vote.