Voting abroad: How Ukrainians can change their voting address

Ukrainians living abroad are urged to update their voter registration address in advance through the State Voter Registry. The opening of additional polling stations, the compilation of voter lists, and the overall quality of the voting process depend on the number of updated records. Find out how to correctly change your voter registration address and why you should do it now

Legal advice for Ukrainians

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The Central Election Commission of Ukraine urges citizens residing abroad not to delay and to update their voting address in a timely manner through the State Voter Registry. This will ensure thorough preparation for the upcoming elections and guarantee access to voting for Ukrainians in various countries around the world. This was announced by CEC member Viktoria Glushchenko during the forum.

The number of polling stations depends on voter turnout

The CEC emphasizes that the establishment of additional polling stations abroad directly depends on how many Ukrainians declare their intention to vote in advance. That is why active voter registration is a key factor.

“The most effective measure to ensure the right to vote would be active voter registration abroad. And depending on how effectively we can communicate with voters, to that extent we will be able to ensure universal suffrage,” – emphasized Glushchenko.

According to her, the more citizens update their information, the more accurate the voter rolls will be, and the greater the chances of opening new polling stations abroad. This will help avoid overcrowding and long lines on Election Day.

How to update your voting address?

You can update your voting address online through the State Voter Registry. The procedure is simple and allows you to:

- indicate your current location

- create accurate voter lists

- help the state better organize the electoral process

Despite the availability of electronic services, citizen engagement remains low.

“Unfortunately, the number of people who have already done this is insignificant—not even in the thousands,” noted the CEC representative.

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Preparing for elections takes time

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine also emphasizes that organizing elections abroad is a complex process. According to State Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Oleksandr Karasevych, this requires at least six months, as well as corresponding amendments to the legislation.

Important! Participation in elections abroad does not depend on being registered with the consulate. This is merely an administrative procedure that, if necessary, involves paying a fee ($20 or €18), but does not affect the right to vote.

The CEC concludes: updating one’s voting address in advance is the responsibility of every citizen residing abroad.

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