What Happens If You’re Travelling on Polling Day (GE2025) in Singapore?

So, you’ve got that exciting getaway planned for May 3, 2025, but wait: it’s Singapore’s GE2025 Polling Day! If you’re a Singaporean voter, the thought of not being able to cast your vote might have crossed your mind. But don’t panic! Here’s everything you need to know about what happens if you’re away on Polling Day and can’t vote.

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Is Voting Mandatory? Yep, It Sure Is!

In Singapore, voting isn’t just encouraged: It’s required by law. Voting is a civic duty, and all Singaporeans aged 21 and above must cast their votes unless they have a valid reason for not doing so. This is a big deal, especially since elections in Singapore can influence the country’s direction for years to come.

What Happens If You’re on Vacation?

We’ve all been there. You’ve got that perfect overseas holiday planned, and oops! It just so happens that it falls on Polling Day. Here’s the kicker: If you’re on vacation overseas, you won’t be able to vote by post or at an overseas polling station. These options are strictly reserved for Singaporeans residing abroad. Unfortunately, the law doesn’t make room for vacationers!

If you miss the vote, your name will be removed from the Registers of Electors. Yikes! That means you’ll be disqualified from voting in future elections. But don’t sweat it! You take action to restore your name later on the Elections Department’s Voter Services platform. The best part? You can do that online using your Singpass!

What About If You’re Sick?

Got an unexpected illness or medical emergency? No problem! You can apply for restoration to the electoral register if you missed voting due to illness. All you need is proof, like a medical certificate, and you’re good to go. Just make sure you apply early to avoid any last-minute stress!

A Fee for Not Voting: Is It Really That Serious?

Yes, there’s a fee if you don’t vote and you want to restore your name on the Registers of Electors and it’s S$50. But don’t worry, if you had a legitimate reason for skipping out on voting, you don’t have to fork that blue-coloured bill out. Well, your name will still be removed, and you’ll have to restore it for future elections, but at least your wallet won’t be affected!

In your application, you can include one of the following supporting documents to justify your absence:

• A letter from your employer or educational institution, or your marriage certificate, if you were overseas for work, study, or accompanying your spouse.
• Documentation showing you were overseas for vacation or business, such as a receipt from a travel agent or hotel, your air ticket, or a letter from your employer.
• A medical certificate, hospital bill, or your child’s birth certificate if health reasons prevented you from voting.

Planning Ahead: How to Avoid the Panic

If you know you won’t be able to vote because of your travel plans, it’s wise to apply for the restoration of your name before the election. Doing this online with your Singpass will save you from the headache of figuring things out last minute!

Can You Vote If You Missed It?

Good news: If you happen to be overseas and your travel dates get moved around or you just so happen to return before Polling Day, you can still cast your vote! The system allows you to proceed with voting even after you’ve submitted a restoration request, so no worries there.

Plan Smart and Avoid Missing Your Vote!

While Singapore’s GE2025 Polling Day on May 3rd may seem like an obstacle to your holiday plans, it’s all about planning ahead. If you’re on vacation and can’t vote, remember to restore your name in the register so you’re not left out of future elections. It’s all about being responsible, whether you’re voting or booking that next overseas adventure!

If you’re lucky enough to be home on May 3rd, make sure you head to your designated polling station, cast your vote, and maybe even snap a cheeky selfie while you’re there: After all, it’s a public holiday, and you’ve earned it!

Also read: 20 Things Singapore Does Better Than Other Countries