As an American citizen living in Spain, your vote in the upcoming US elections could be critical, especially given the close margins by which many federal elections have been decided.
Following the recent presidential debate where President Joe Biden announced he would not run for re-election, Vice President Kamala Harris has stepped up to face off against former President Donald Trump. With such high stakes, based on information from the official US government website, InSpain.news advises how to make your vote count, even from abroad.
Election details
The US elections are scheduled for November 5, 2024. However, as an absentee voter, you can cast your vote as soon as all the online paperwork is confirmed. There’s no need to wait until Election Day.
The first presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump is set for September 10 on ABC. Although Trump has proposed two additional debate dates on other channels, Harris has not agreed to these. Additionally, several independent candidates are also running for president, including Robert F Kennedy Jnr.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to vote from Spain:
1: Request your ballot
- Complete the FPCA: To vote in the 2024 elections, you need to fill out a new Federal Post Card Application (FPCA). This application allows you to request absentee ballots for all federal elections, including primaries and special elections.
- Submit the FPCA: You can complete and submit the FPCA online at FVAP.gov. The website’s online voting assistant will guide you based on your state’s specific requirements. To expedite the process, request to receive your ballot electronically.
- Follow instructions: Depending on your state, you might need to submit the FPCA electronically or via a paper copy with an original ink signature. Ensure you follow the instructions provided by the online voting assistant.
2: Receive and complete your ballot
- Ballot delivery: States must send out ballots 45 days before a regular election and at least 30 days before primary elections. You can confirm your registration and ballot delivery status online through your state’s election website.
3: Return your completed ballot
- Returning your ballot: Depending on your state, you may be able to return your ballot electronically. If paper ballots are required, you can send them free of charge via the US Embassy or Consulate in Spain.
- Locations for ballot drop-off:
- US Embassy in Madrid: Drop off your ballot at the American Citizens Services unit between 8.30 am and 1.00 pm, Monday to Friday, except on holidays.
- US Consulate General in Barcelona: Drop off your ballot between 9.00 am and 1.00 pm, Monday to Friday, except on holidays.
- US Consular Agencies: Schedule an appointment via email with the nearest US consular agency to drop off your voting documents.
Additional voting assistance
- Contact information:
- US Embassy Madrid: VoteMadrid@state.gov
- US Consulate General Barcelona: VoteBarcelona@state.gov
- FVAP Contact: Contact the Federal Voting Assistance Program at Vote@FVAP.gov or call 0800 917 304.