Registered electors who want to vote by post in the General Election are encouraged to apply for and return their voter pack in plenty of time.
A postal ballot is a simple and convenient way to vote if you are unable, or choose not to, vote at a polling station.
Closing dates for applications:
- If you are in the Isle of Man – 16 September 2026
- If you are in the British Isles – 10 September 2026
- If you are outside the Isle of Man and the British Isles – 1 September 2026
Apply early, especially students who may leave the Island during August for university or college. Postal votes can be sent to addresses in the Isle of Man, UK and overseas.
To vote you must be 16 years old or over. All electors must be on the electoral register if they wish to vote in the General Election in September – the deadline for registration is 25 August 2026. It is quick and easy to register and to update personal details online.
How to apply for and return a postal vote
- Download the application form for your constituency from the General Election website or contact the Elections team and ask for a paper form to be posted to you – email elections@gov.im or call +44 1624 685754
- Send or deliver completed postal voter applications to the Elections team, Cabinet Office, Ground Floor, Custom House, Bank Hill, Douglas IM1 4LL, or email elections@gov.im
- Make sure your vote counts. Act early to apply for your postal voter pack. Promptly return it to ensure it arrives before the deadline, especially if you are overseas
Returning your postal voter ballot pack
- Postal voter ballot packs will not arrive before 2 September 2026. Election candidates are announced on 26 August 2026
- Packs will include instructions to help electors complete their postal voter statement and the ballot paper
- Return the pack to the Deputy Returning Officer for the relevant constituency before 5pm on 23 September. Election candidates are announced on 26 August 2026
- If necessary, postal ballot packs can be hand-delivered at any polling station in your constituency between 8am and 8pm on election day
Proxy votes
If you cannot cast your vote at a polling station or in advance by post, you can apply for a proxy vote to have someone vote on your behalf.
Valid reasons include a medical emergency or urgent, required business travel overseas. Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis by the Electoral Registration Officer.
Find information and guidance on the General Election website, email elections@gov.im or call +44 1624 685754.
