Advance voting for the 2025 federal election has officially begun in Canada, starting today, April 18, 2025. This crucial phase allows registered voters to cast their ballots early, ensuring they can participate in the democratic process ahead of the official election day on April 28.
Advance voting will be available across the country from April 18 to April 21, with polling stations open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Voters who arrive at the station before 9 p.m. will still be allowed to vote, even if they are in line when the clock strikes nine.
For those wondering where to vote, registered voters should have received a voter information card in the mail by April 11. This card indicates their assigned polling station for advance voting. If a voter has not received their card or needs to confirm their voting location, they can use Elections Canada’s voter information service available online.
It's important to note that unlike provincial elections, where voters may have more flexibility, federal election rules stipulate that individuals must vote at their assigned advance voting station. James Hale, a spokesperson for Elections Canada, explained the reasoning behind this rule: "With a much smaller number of potential electors, a province like B.C. can cross-check between polling places, so that by sharing information it ensures the integrity of the vote: one vote per person. Given the multiple time zones and hundreds of polling places, that would be very challenging to do on a national basis."
For those who cannot make it to their assigned polling station during the advance voting days or on election day, there is an alternative. Voters can cast their ballot at any Elections Canada office until 6 p.m. on April 22, 2025. Approximately 500 Elections Canada offices are open nationwide, and voters can find their nearest office through the Elections Canada website.
However, it’s worth mentioning that if voters choose to use the special ballot process at an Elections Canada office, they will receive a blank ballot where they must write in the names of the candidates, as opposed to the pre-printed ballots available at their assigned polling stations.
As for timing, Elections Canada advises that the peak hours for voting tend to be between 10 a.m. and noon, when lines are typically the longest. For those looking to avoid the crowds, the best times to vote are either before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
Additionally, voters should be aware of the legal restrictions regarding ballot privacy. Taking a photo of a completed ballot, or even someone else's, is considered illegal under the Canada Elections Act. As per Elections Canada, "it violates the secrecy of the vote under the Canada Elections Act." To share proof of voting without breaching this law, individuals can take a photo outside the voting station or with their "I just voted" sticker instead.
In the Foothills riding, advance voting will occur at specific locations, including the Best Western Plus Okotoks Inn & Suites and the Flare N Derrick Community Centre in Diamond Valley, both open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. from April 18 to April 21. Voters in this area are encouraged to check their voter information cards for details on where they are assigned to vote.
For those who prefer to vote by mail, applications must be submitted by April 22 at 4 p.m. to ensure ballots are received in time. Voters are reminded to contact Elections Canada if they have not received their voter information card or if it contains incorrect information.
As Canadians head to the polls, the excitement for the upcoming election is palpable. With just ten days remaining until election day, every vote counts, and advance voting provides a convenient opportunity for citizens to participate in shaping their government.
Polls will be open on election day, April 28, from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., allowing those who missed the advance voting period another chance to make their voices heard.
In summary, this election season is crucial for Canadians, and the advance voting period is an essential part of that process. Whether voting early or on election day, citizens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the voting rules and procedures to ensure a smooth experience at the polls.
