Canada could see a federal election as soon as next month, and first-time voters should know a few key things about how voting works in the country.
A source told Radio-Canada that Prime Minister Mark Carney, who was sworn in on March 14, will ask Governor General Mary Simon to dissolve Parliament this Sunday and call an election. Daily Hive has reached out to the Liberal Party of Canada for information.
According to Elections Canada, the election period can’t last less than 36 days and no more than 50 days; the period will be determined by the government. Allegedly, Canadians can expect to cast their ballots on April 28 or May 5.
Whether you recently reached the legal age to vote (at least 18 years old) or just became a Canadian citizen, here’s everything you need to know to ensure you’re prepared to vote in the 45th General Election.
Register to vote
Voters can register at the polls or in advance. One easy way to register is by checking “yes” to the question in the Elections Canada section in your Canada Revenue Agency tax return.
You can also register online using the Online Voter Registration Service to input your information, which should only take a few minutes. You’ll be asked to include your name, address, date of birth and gender.
The site also allows you to check if you’re already registered and allows you to update your address.
Once registered, keep an eye out for your voter information card in the mail. The card will have information on when and where to vote. Also, check the card to ensure the information is accurate.
How to vote by mail
Can’t make it to a polling station? Canadians have the option to vote by mail.
To do so, you must fill out an Application for Registration and Special Ballot. The form can be found on the website, a local Elections Canada office, or you can call Elections Canada to request a form.
Once your application to apply by mail is accepted, you’ll receive a special ballot voting kit, which includes a special ballot, two envelopes, and instructions on how to mark and mail your special ballot.
If you choose to vote by mail, remember that deadlines apply.
How to vote in advance
If you’re registered to vote, you can vote several days before election day.
Information on where you can find advance poll stations and operating hours will be available online and on your voter information card. You can also call Elections Canada for information on your assigned polling station.
Have an acceptable form of ID ready
Acceptable forms of ID include a driver’s licence or a government-issued ID with a photo, name and current address.
If you don’t have a driver’s licence or a government-issued ID, you must provide two pieces of ID, which can include health cards, bank statements, utility bills or a student ID card. Elections Canada has a full list of accepted IDs.
Don’t have an ID? You can still vote if you declare your ID and address in writing and have someone who knows you (and is assigned to your polling station) who can vouch for you. That person must be able to prove their ID and address and can only vouch for one person.
Election Day in Canada: What to do
If you haven’t already registered, you can do so on election day at polling stations. To do that, you must sign a registration certificate and provide acceptable proof of identity and residence.
On election day, bring your voter information card and an acceptable form of ID and head to your local polling station.
At the polling station, you’ll be provided with a ballot and directed to a privacy barrier where you can mark the ballot.
Check Elections Canada for more information.
