Permanent proxy voting

Find out if you're eligible for permanent proxy voting.

When you can get a permanent proxy vote

Usually, you can only appoint a proxy for a specific election. You may be eligible for permanent proxy voting if you:

  • live overseas
  • have a disability
  • have work or education commitments

How to apply for a permanent proxy vote 

You need to verify your identity when you apply for a proxy vote. You can do this by providing your National Insurance number. If you can't provide a National Insurance number, or we aren't able to verify your identity with it, we'll ask you for more identification.

Applying for a permanent proxy vote online

You can apply for permanent proxy vote online if you're: 

  • registered as a British citizen living overseas (overseas elector)
  • registered to vote as a Crown Servant or British Council employee, or are the spouse or civil partner of a Crown Servant or British Council employee
  • registered to vote as a member of armed forces, or the spouse or civil partner of someone in the armed forces 

You'll need to: 

  • give the address where you are registered to vote
  • give the address where your proxy is registered to vote
  • prove your identity by providing your National Insurance number if you have one
  • upload a clear scan or photo of your signature

Apply for a permanent proxy vote online.

Other ways to apply

If you are applying for a permanent proxy due to a disability, or work or education commitments, then you can only apply using a paper form. This is because you need to provide a signed attestation to support your application for a permanent proxy vote.

If you can't provide a signed attestation, we won't be able to give you a permanent proxy vote. However, you can still apply online for a one-time proxy vote. You'll just need to apply for one each time there is an election.

Find out more about permanent proxies and download an application form.

Return completed paper application forms to us:

  • by post to Electoral Services, Hove Town Hall, Norton Road Hove, BN3 3BQ.
  • by email, as a clear scan or photo

You can also contact us if you have any questions, or need help.

Electoral services team