Postal Voting
I can't get to my Polling Station. Am I eligible for a postal vote?
The Postal Voters lists form part of the Register of Electors. The following categories of persons are registered as postal voters:
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A whole-time member of the Defence Forces (if you live in military barracks you can be registered either at the barracks or at your home address) by completing Form PV1, or
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An Irish Diplomat posted abroad. Complete and return Form PV3 to ensure that you and your spouse/civil partner can be registered at your home address in Ireland.
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Are a member of An Garda Síochána; Complete Form PV5 if you wish to apply for a postal vote.
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Are living at home and are unable to go to a polling station to vote because of an illness or disability. You should complete Form PV2.
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Have an occupation that is likely to prevent you from voting at your local polling station on election day. This category includes full-time students registered at home who are living elsewhere while attending an educational institution in the State; Form PV4 is the form you need.
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Are unable to vote at your polling station due to circumstances of your detention in prison pursuant to an order of the court; Form PV6 is the form you need.
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Among certain election staff employed by the Returning Officer outside the constituency where you reside/are registered to vote, Form PV8 is the one you need.
- A person whose safety may be at risk can apply to be an anonymous elector and they would also vote by post using Form PV7
You should know that depending on the type of election, the application procedures and dates for inclusion on the Postal Voters list vary. Please read the notes on the application forms promptly. If you have any questions, contact us for advice as soon as you can.
It is also important to note that if you are registered as a postal voter, you can vote by post only and may not vote at a polling station.
Also, if you are out of the country on holiday, you are not eligible for a postal vote.