- Why should I register to vote?
- Benefits of being registered
- How do I register to vote?
- Who can vote?
- Voting FAQs
Why should I register to vote?
If you're eligible, registering to vote is a legal requirement. Registering also gives you the opportunity to have your say on issues that affect your daily life, such as:
- Education
- Transport
- Housing
- Crime
- Health
- Jobs
- Sport and leisure facilities
You do not have to vote just because you're registered. However, being on the electoral register means your voice can be heard if you choose to take part in elections.
Benefits of being registered
Being registered to vote does more than allow you to vote in elections.
Many organisations use the electoral register to help verify your identity and prevent fraud. This can make it easier to:
- Rent accommodation
- Apply for a loan
- Open financial accounts
- Build your credit history
If you're not on the electoral register, some organisations may find it harder to verify your details.
How do I register to vote?
You can register online in just a few minutes through the Government website:
- Register to vote online
You can also download a paper application or contact your local council's Electoral Services Team. - If you live on campus or in the local area, your local council is Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council. Register to vote
Important
- If you're already registered at your current address, you do not need to register again.
- If you have recently moved, make sure you register using your full address, including your room or flat number. Incomplete addresses may delay your registration.
Who can vote?
To vote in a UK parliamentary election, you must be registered to vote and:
- Be 18 or over on polling day.
- Be a British, Irish or qualifying Commonwealth citizen.
- Live at a UK address, or be an eligible UK citizen living abroad.
- Not be legally excluded from voting.
Who cannot vote in a UK parliamentary election?
- Members of the House of Lords.
- Most EU citizens (except citizens of Ireland, Cyprus and Malta where applicable).
- Individuals who are not British, Irish or qualifying Commonwealth citizens.
- Convicted prisoners serving a sentence (with certain exceptions).
- Anyone disqualified because of electoral offences.
For full eligibility rules, check the Government voting guidance.
Voting FAQs
- Can I register at both my home and university addresses?
Yes. Students can register at both addresses if they are in different electoral areas.
However, it is illegal to vote more than once in the same parliamentary election or national referendum.
Find out more:
https://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-and-elections/who-can-vote/students
- What if I only want to vote in my home area?
You can:
- Return home and vote in person.
- Apply for a postal vote.
- Apply for a proxy vote, which allows someone else to vote on your behalf.
Information and application forms are available at:
https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
- What is a postal vote?
A postal vote allows you to vote by mail instead of visiting a polling station.
Your local council will send your ballot paper before the election. Complete and return it by the deadline provided to ensure your vote is counted.
- What is a proxy vote?
A proxy vote allows a trusted person, such as a friend or relative, to vote on your behalf.
Your local council must approve the arrangement before the election.
- Do I need photo ID to vote?
You may need photo ID when voting in person in some UK elections and referendums.
This includes:
- UK parliamentary elections
- Parliamentary by-elections
- Recall petitions
- Local elections in England
- Mayoral elections in England
- Police and Crime Commissioner elections
- Certain local referendums