Register to vote
You must be listed on the electoral register in order to vote in elections or referendums. Find out how to register, or check if you're registered.
If you are eligible to vote and want to vote in a upcoming election then your name must be on the electoral register. You need to apply to register to vote. Paying Council Tax does not automatically add your details to the register.
You normally only need to register once - not for every election. You’ll need to register again if you change your name, address or nationality. It only takes a few minutes to apply online.
You can get help registering to vote at a local library.
Register to vote in special circumstances
Get advice if you're:
- a British citizen living abroad
- a member of the armed forces
- a crown servant of British Council employee
- a voter without a fixed or permanent address
- a student without a home or term-time address
- a second homeowner or live at more than one address
- at risk if your name of address is on the electoral register (anonymous voter)
Check you are registered to vote
To find out if you are already registered to vote, email electoral.enquiries@southwark.gov.uk or call 020 7525 7373.
You can also inspect the electoral register in person.
Get confirmation that you've registered
Email electoral.enquiries@southwark.gov.uk with your full name and address to request a written confirmation of your registration.
If you’re denied credit or are told you have a low credit score because your name is not on the electoral register, we cannot contact credit reference agencies directly to discuss your registration status, your application for credit, or people previously registered at your address.
If you live overseas
You must renew your declaration that you're an overseas voter every three years. We will contact you to renew your registration around three months before your renewal date.
Read more about voting if you live overseas.
If you're an EU citizen
If you're an EU citizen you may be able to register, vote or stand for election in England, but only in certain circumstances. Read about the rules.
If you meet the criteria to register to vote as an EU citizen, we will contact you to confirm your continued eligibility.