The 2024 US presidential election is almost here, and its outcome has more at stake than ever before. With pivotal issues on the table, decisions made at the polls will shape the future not only for the United States but also for the world. This year, we’re seeing record-high voter registration, especially among young adults. Vote.org, the largest nonpartisan voter registration platform in the US, reported over one million new voters registered in September alone.
But for Americans abroad, the question lingers: is it too late to make your vote count? Here’s the good news: it’s not. Even if you’re abroad, you can still vote in the 2024 presidential election, as long as you’re over 18 and a US citizen. Here’s what you need to know to take part in the 2024 election, wherever you are.
Can I still vote in the 2024 election if I live abroad?
The short answer is yes. But with Election Day approaching fast, email is the only reliable method for overseas registration and voting at this stage, as postal ballots may not arrive in time. Whether or not you can still vote also depends on state-specific rules and your registration status.
How to vote from abroad
If you’re living abroad, here’s how you can register and request your ballot online:
- Head fvap.gov and select “Still need to register and request a ballot? Click here.”
- Choose your state and voter classification, then fill in your personal information and your last U.S. residence address. If you’ve never lived in the US, use your family’s current US address.
- Download the completed FPCA (Federal Post Card Application) and send it to your county election office. Contact details are available on the website.
Once registered, your county will send you a Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) by email. Select your candidates and reply with your completed ballot, including your full name, address and the statement “I waive my right to privacy” (necessary to allow officials to count your emailed ballot).
If you’re already registered, there’s more good news: many states accept ballots via email or fax up until November 5th at 7 or 8 pm local time. You can still request and return your ballot by the deadline if you’re voting from Alaska, Delaware, Indiana, Louisiana, Minnesota, Mississippi, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah, or Wyoming. There is a catch though. If you haven’t yet registered, be aware that only certain states allow registration right up to Election Day.
Last-minute registration and voting rules by state
The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) provides essential guidance for American citizens living abroad. Below is a quick state-by-state breakdown for last-minute registration and voting eligibility:
Arizona, Kansas, Maine, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Vermont and Washington
In these states, you can still register and vote up to the day before Election Day or even on Election Day itself (varies by state). Be prepared to wait for district office responses and allow enough time to register, receive and submit your ballot before the 7 pm deadline.
California and Rhode Island
The official registration deadlines have passed, but FVAP advises reaching out to your local election office if you’d still like to register.
Colorado and Montana
These states allow submissions for registration and ballots until November 5th, accepting ballots as long as they’re sent by Election Day.
Connecticut and Nevada
This one’s tight. While Election Day is the final deadline, they’re offices strongly encourage voters to submit everything at least seven days in advance.
Iowa and North Dakota
No registration is required in these states—just request your ballot by November 4th and send it in right away.
Michigan
No set deadline for registration here, but to ensure your vote counts, request your ballot by the end of November 2.
What your vote could mean
Several states where you can still vote—Arizona, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina and Wisconsin—are swing states. Because of the way the US electoral system works, these are the critical states that could sway the election either way. Voting is more than casting a ballot—it’s a chance to shape the future. Whether from home or abroad, your voice matters, especially if you’re from one of these pivotal states.
If understanding the US electoral system, democracy and political processes piques your interest, perhaps consider turning that curiosity into a career with a Bachelor in Political Science. It’s a path that builds expertise, marketable skills and maybe even a path into politics, where you could one day make an even larger impact.