Proxy Vote FAQs
Frequently asked questions about proxy votes
Can I apply for a proxy vote?
You can apply for a proxy vote as long as you are on the electoral register.
You can apply for a proxy vote if:
- you are unable to go to the polling station for a particular election, for example, if you are away on holiday
- you have a physical condition that means you cannot go to the polling station on election day
- your employment means that you cannot go to the polling station on election day
- your attendance on an educational course means that you cannot go to the polling station on election day
- you are a British citizen living overseas
- you are a crown servant or a member of Her Majesty's Armed Forces
For further advice or to apply for a proxy vote contact the Electoral Registration Officer (ERO) on 0131 344 2500.
Existing proxy voters
You can amend an existing proxy vote up until 19 April (5pm).
You can apply for a new proxy vote up until 26 April (5pm).
Emergency Proxy
If you have an emergency 6 days before polling day or after, you can apply to vote by emergency proxy if the emergency means that you cannot go to the polling station in person
[Note: the deadline for emergency proxy applications is 5pm on polling day].
For further advice contact the ERO on 0131 344 2500.
Who can be my proxy?
Anyone can be your proxy as long as they are eligible to vote and they are willing to vote on your behalf.
You cannot be a proxy for more than two people at any one election, unless they are a close relative.
For further advice, contact the ERO on 0131 344 2500.
What happens after I’ve applied for a proxy vote?
Your proxy will be sent a proxy poll letter/card telling them where and when to vote. Your proxy should go to your polling station to vote.
If your proxy cannot get to the polling station, they can apply to vote for you by post (postal proxy). They can apply to do this by 19 April. They should contact the ERO on 0131 344 2500.
If, after you have appointed a proxy, you find you are able to go to the polling station on polling day, you can still vote in person as long as your proxy has not already done so or has not applied to vote by post for you (postal proxy).
I’ve been made the proxy for someone, what do I need to do?
You will be sent a special proxy poll letter/card with details of where you should go to vote. On polling day show poll staff your letter/card of appointment as a proxy and they will tell you what to do.
If you are unable to go to the polling station on polling day you can vote by post (postal proxy). You must apply for a postal proxy vote before 5pm on 19 April.
For further advice, contact the ERO on 0131 344 2500.
How do I apply for an emergency proxy?
The deadline for an emergency proxy application is 5pm on polling day.
If you need to apply for this you must contact the ERO on 0131 344 2500.