You can even vote by fax if you are outside the country.
California’s living outside the United States, including military and students studying abroad, are still eligible to vote by absentee. Thanks to the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) the US Government offers opportunities even to those Americans overseas who are turning 18 and voting for the first time to ensure that their vote is counted.
To start the process and request an absentee ballot, it all begins with a Federal Postcard Application. Overseas voters wishing to cast ballots in California should be prepared to provide either a California issued ID or the last four digits of their Social Security Number and the address of your previous US residence.
Those worried about residency and tax implications, should know that voting in a federal election may not be used as the sole basis of determining residency for the sole purpose of state or local taxes.
Californians living abroad are encouraged to contact their local registrar of voters with specific questions.
California allows mailed overseas ballots to be counted as long as they are postmarked by Election Day and received no later than seven days after Election Day. The Secretary of State recommends that ballots be mailed as soon as possible to be received. Military families have access to free express mail service via free Priority Express Mail Labels 11-DOD available at Military Post Office locations.
Even voting by Fax is allowed for those residing outside the United States jurisdictions. To vote by Fax, you will need either an Oath of Voter form or a FVAP Cover sheet depending on your county’s regulations.
As technology and laws change voter regulations do as well, so citizens abroad are encouraged to check with their county election officials several months out from an election to make sure they are up to date on opportunities and requirements to cast a California ballot.
