LGE 2026: Special vote applications open for eligible voters

The IEC has opened applications for special votes ahead of the November 4 local government elections, with eligible voters able to apply until October 12.

With South Africa’s local government elections set for November 4, registered voters who may not be able to vote on election day can now apply for a special vote.

The Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) opened applications on Monday, September 21, giving eligible voters the option to cast their ballots before election day, or to apply for a home visit, depending on their circumstances.

IEC Chief Electoral Officer Sy Mamabolo said applications would remain open until 5pm on October 12.

A special vote allows registered voters who cannot vote at their voting station on election day to cast their ballots before November 4 or, in some cases, receive a visit from IEC officials at home.

The process is intended for voters who meet the requirements set by the IEC and cannot vote at their registered voting station on election day.

Voters who are physically unable to travel to their voting station can apply for a home visit from IEC officials.

Voters who can travel but will not be able to vote on November 4 can apply to cast their ballots at their registered voting station on November 2 or 3.

The IEC also allows registered voters who will be outside their voting district on election day because of qualifying circumstances, including essential work, to apply for a special vote.

Voters can apply online through the IEC’s platforms or at their local IEC office.

Before applying, voters should check that their registration details are correct.

To check their registration and voting-station details, voters can send their ID number by SMS to 32810.

For information about voting-station special votes, voters can send their ID number by SMS to 32249.

Approved special votes will take place on November 2 and 3, before the November 4 election.