As the countdown to Canada’s 45th general election continues, Canadians are gearing up to cast their votes, with election day set for Monday, April 28, 2025. In a bid to make voting more accessible, Elections Canada has expanded polling opportunities across the nation, particularly at university and college campuses.
With just two weeks remaining until election day, polling stations have been established at more than 100 post-secondary institutions, allowing all Canadians—not just students—to participate in the electoral process. In Kamloops, for instance, voters can head to the Lecture Hall at Thompson Rivers University (TRU), while those in Merritt can cast their ballots in room M067 at the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT). These campus polling stations will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. until Wednesday, April 16, 2025, with the NVIT location operating only on April 14 and 15.
However, not all voters are receiving their voter information cards on time. Elections Canada is currently facing delays in delivering these essential cards, which provide key information about where and when to vote. Florence Ryan, a spokesperson for Elections Canada, stated, "It has proven challenging to identify and secure some polling locations in this general election." She assured that affected voters would receive their cards before the advance polls open on Friday, April 18.
For those who have not yet received their voter information card, it is crucial to check their registration status. Voters can verify their registration through Elections Canada’s Online Voter Registration Service or by calling the voter hotline at 1-800-463-6868. While it is recommended to bring the voter card along with accepted identification to the polls, individuals can still cast their ballots without it.
Advance voting, which allows Canadians to vote before election day, will take place over the Easter weekend from April 18 to April 21, 2025. Voters in the Courtenay-Alberni riding will have the option to choose from seven candidates, including Brian Cameron from the Liberal Party and Gord Johns, the incumbent from the NDP. Residents should have received their voter information cards by April 11, 2025, which contain details about their polling locations.
Those who did not receive their card can still update their voter information online at elections.ca or by contacting their local Elections Canada office before April 22. It is also possible to register at the polls on election day, provided voters bring appropriate identification.
In Tofino, advance voting will be held at the Tofino Community Hall, open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. from April 18 to April 21. However, voters need to be aware that on Saturday, April 19, the hall will also host a community Easter egg hunt, potentially leading to congestion. Residents are advised to walk to the voting center as parking will be limited.
For those unable to vote during the advance voting period, Elections Canada offices across the country will be available for in-person voting until April 22 at 6 p.m. EDT. Locations in Port Alberni and Parksville will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., allowing voters to cast their ballots ahead of the election.
Voting by mail is another option for Canadians who cannot make it to the polls. Applications for mail-in ballots must be submitted by April 22, and voters should ensure that their completed ballots are returned to Elections Canada by election day.
On election day itself, voters in Ucluelet can cast their votes at the Ucluelet Athletic Club Hall from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., while Tofino voters will go to the Tofino Community Hall during the same hours.
As Canadians prepare to exercise their democratic rights, it’s essential to stay informed about the voting process, including registration, polling locations, and identification requirements. The electoral system in Canada is designed to ensure that every eligible citizen has the opportunity to participate in shaping the country’s future.
For more information about the voting process, Canadians are encouraged to visit the Elections Canada website or contact their local office. With the election just around the corner, every vote counts, and being prepared is crucial for a smooth voting experience.
