Special vote applications open ahead of 2026 elections
Registered voters unable to vote on election day can apply for a home visit or vote at their registered voting station.
Eligible voters who cannot cast their ballot on election day have been reminded that applications for special votes are now open.
According to the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), special voting is available to voters who meet the requirements and cannot vote on election day.
Applications opened on September 21 and will close on October 12 at 17:00.
A key requirement is that voters must vote at the voting station where they are registered. “Remember, voters must vote at the voting station where they are registered,” the statement said.
The special vote process provides two options for eligible voters. Voters who cannot travel because of a physical condition or disability can request a home visit. In these cases, officials will visit the voter at home, provided the home is within the voter’s registered voting district.
A voting station visit is available to eligible voters who can travel to their registered voting station on the early voting days but cannot attend on election day.
The IEC poster also states that special votes will take place on November 2 and 3, 2026, ahead of election day.
Residents unsure whether they qualify can find eligibility information through the IEC’s special vote information service.
The IEC’s guidance confirms that special votes are intended for registered voters who cannot vote at their voting station on election day.
Voters can check their eligibility via the IEC’s Special Votes information page.
