The essential guide to voting from abroad as a US citizen
With the US midterm elections fast approaching, it's important for Americans living overseas to make sure they're prepared. We explain exactly how to vote from abroad.
While many Americans abroad are enjoying the summer, election deadlines can approach quickly. Have you made sure you're ready to vote?
An increasing number of Americans living overseas are choosing to make their voices heard at the ballot box.
Approximately 3.3 million US citizens live abroad, with 2.2 million of voting age, and there is a well-established system in place to help ensure their votes are counted.
Over the decades, a simple, secure and effective process has been developed to enable Americans overseas to vote, whether they are serving in the military, working, studying or enjoying retirement abroad.
There are a few key steps Americans outside the United States should take throughout the year to make sure they remain eligible to vote and receive their ballots on time.
Along with the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP), we've outlined the steps you need to follow to make your voice heard in upcoming elections. And with the midterm elections approaching on November 3rd 2026, it's a good time to register so you can take part.
Request your absentee ballot using FVAP's FPCA tool and help ensure that your vote counts
Step one: Make sure you've requested your absentee ballot
You can't vote without a ballot, so the first step is making sure one can be sent to you.
Most Americans abroad do this by completing the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), which allows election officials to confirm your eligibility and send your ballot to your overseas address or preferred delivery method.
Using the online tool, you'll be asked for your voting residence address and a few other personal details that your local election office can use to identify you.
If you're unsure of your voting residence, FVAP provides guidance to help determine the correct address.
Once you've completed the form, print, sign and submit it according to your state's requirements.
Even if you've voted from overseas before, FVAP recommends submitting a new FPCA each calendar year to ensure your information remains current and your ballot request is active for each election year.
If you're concerned about whether your application has been received, you can contact your local election office directly.
Step two: Complete and return your ballot promptly
After your FPCA has been processed, your absentee ballot will be sent to you using the delivery method you selected, typically email or postal mail.
Once you receive it, complete and return it as soon as possible. Sending your ballot early helps avoid any unexpected delays and ensures it arrives in time to be counted.
Ballot return deadlines vary by state, and each state has its own rules regarding postmarks and receipt dates. FVAP's website provides up-to-date information for every state and territory.
If you're voting from overseas, it's also worth considering local postal delivery times and any seasonal delays that could affect international mail.
Step three: Have a backup plan
International mail is generally reliable – but delays can happen.
That's why FVAP recommends becoming familiar with the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB), a backup ballot available to eligible US citizens living overseas.
If you're concerned that your regular absentee ballot may not arrive or be returned in time, you can complete and submit a FWAB instead.
The FWAB can be completed online or downloaded as a printable PDF and emailed to your election office.
Remember that election officials will only count one ballot. If both your FWAB and regular absentee ballot are received, state rules determine which ballot will be counted.
Step four: Remind family and friends
Life overseas can be busy, and election deadlines can easily slip people's minds.
If you've already requested your ballot and made a plan to vote, take a moment to remind other Americans abroad to do the same.
A quick message to friends, family members or colleagues could help ensure that they have time to register, request a ballot and return it before their state's deadline.
Do you have questions about voting from abroad? Need help requesting a ballot or understanding the process? Visit the Federal Voting Assistance Program website for the latest guidance and resources.
This content was paid for by an advertiser and produced by The Local's Creative Studio.