Federal Election: The voting process in Canada

Voting is an important way to have your voice heard in Canada's government. Here’s everything you need to know about the process of voting in the upcoming federal election.

Photo by Elections Canada

What am I voting for?

Cast your vote for a person (Member of Parliament or MP) to represent you and your riding (neighbourhood) in the Canadian government.

For information about the candidates in your riding visit the Elections Canada Voter Information Service website. You can find a list of the candidates as well as links to their websites.

Who can vote?

You are eligible to vote if you are a Canadian citizen, 18 years old or older on election day (April 28), and can prove your identity and address.

When can I vote?

Monday, April 28, 2025 is election day.

If you are unable to vote in-person on April 28, you can vote in-person at advance polls on:

• April 18

• April 19

• April 20

• April 21

  
  

You can also vote at any Elections Canada office now until Tuesday April 22 at 6:00pm. To find the Elections Canada Office nearest to you visit Elections Canada’s Voting Locations page.

Where can I vote?

To find where to vote on April 28 visit the Elections Canada website and enter your postal code or check the Voter Information Card you may receive in the mail.

To find your advance polling station location visit the Elections Canada website and enter your postal code or check the Voter Information Card you may receive in the mail.

You can also apply to vote by mail. For more information visit the Elections Canada website. In order to vote by mail you must apply on the website by April 22.

I want to vote! What do I do now?

Step 1: Register to vote. You can do this online on the Elections Canada website or in-person at your assigned polling station on the advance voting days or on election day.

If you are unsure if you are registered you can find out on the Elections Canada website.

To find your assigned polling station (the location where you should vote) visit the Elections Canada Voter Information Service website.

If you register in advance, it will make the voting process easier.

Step 2: Make a plan!

Sometimes you may have to wait in line to vote. When will you have time? Choose a day that works best for you.

For more information about taking time off work to vote, visit the Elections Canada website and talk to your employer!

Step 3: Gather the documents you need.

In order to vote you must be able to prove your identity and your address. You can use your Driver’s Licence with your current address but if you do not have a licence, there are other options! For more information visit the Elections Canada website.

Step 4: Go vote!

We encourage you to take part in the democratic process—your vote matters!