Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act
The Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) of 1986 allows for certain groups of citizens to register to vote and receive an absentee ballot (if requested), despite being abroad and not physically residing in the United States at the time of registering or receiving their ballot.
Registering to Vote Overseas
Voting While Studying Abroad
Students who are U.S. citizens and wish to vote while studying abroad must first be registered with officials in their state. Students must complete the Federal Post Card Application to request an absentee ballot abroad, similar to other overseas voters. Student voters studying abroad who do not receive their absentee ballot in time, may also request a Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot.
Additional Resources
Federal Voting Assistance Program
The federal program that works to ensure military service members, their eligible family members, and other overseas citizens are aware of their right to vote and have the tools and resources to successfully do so.
U.S. Vote Foundation
A private, nonpartisan nonprofit organization dedicated to provide voter services and election data to citizens, especially in regards to their Overseas Vote Initiative.
The Uniformed And Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act
As explained on the U.S. Justice Department website, the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act allows certain U.S. citizens living abroad to register and vote in U.S. elections. Depending on your state, you may also be able to vote in state and local elections.
U.S. State Department
For U.S. citizens that are traveling abroad either permanently or temporarily, the U.S. State Department provides resources for these citizens to get their absentee ballots.