Here’s everything you need to know about voting in Quebec
Every four years, a provincial election is held in Quebec to elect representatives to the National Assembly. This year’s election is October 3 and you’ll have your say on the issues that matter most to you.
If you need a little help figuring out where to start, there are plenty of resources available, such as Elections Quebec.
Élections Québec is a neutral and independent institution that aims to ensure the integrity, transparency and reliability of elections. If you want to exercise your right to vote, their website is full of valuable information to help you navigate the polls.
Élections Québec plans and manages the different stages of an election while promoting Québec democratic values in order to make the process as simple and accessible as possible.
Whether you’re voting for the first time or want a refresher on the process, here are some important points to keep in mind.
Make sure you are eligible to vote
Courtesy of Elections Quebec, 2022
To vote, you must meet certain conditions. For example, you must be at least 18 years old on polling day and have resided in Québec for at least six months.
You must also be a Canadian citizen, not be under curatorship or have lost your right to vote. Finally, your home address must appear on the list of electors.
Make sure you’re registered to vote
Courtesy of Elections Quebec, 2022
To vote, you must be registered on the electoral list. To check if you are registered, you can visit the Elections Quebec website and enter personal information, such as your name, address and date of birth. You’ll know if you’re registered or not in seconds.
If you need to register to vote, don’t worry, it’s easy. Simply complete the online application form, provide two pieces of ID and answer a few questions. You may need to update your registration periodically if you move, for example.
Vote on Election Day
Courtesy of Elections Quebec, 2022
October 3 is election day, so go to your polling station between 9:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. to vote.
Upon arrival, you will need to present one of the required pieces of identification (such as a Quebec driver’s license, Quebec health insurance card, Canadian passport, Indian status certificate or ID card). Canadian Forces ID) and confirm your name and address. An employee of Élections Québec will then explain to you how to complete your ballot.
Polling station information will be listed on the yellow reminder card you will receive in the mail a few days before October 3.
Vote in your school
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Are you a student? Will you be away from your home electoral district during the election? If so, and if your school has a polling station, you can go there to vote on September 23, 27, 28 and 29. Don’t forget to bring one of the required pieces of identification.
Vote in advance
Courtesy of Elections Quebec, 2022
You may not be available to vote on October 3, which is why there is advance voting on September 25 and 26.
To vote early, simply go to an advance polling location between 9:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. and follow the same steps as voting on Election Day.
You will find the addresses of the polling stations with advance polls on the notice that you will receive by mail at the beginning of the election period.
Voting at the office of the returning officer
Courtesy of Elections Quebec, 2022
Would you like to vote on a day other than Sunday or Monday? No problem. There are five additional voting days available at the office of the returning officer.
If you are not currently in your home electoral district, you can vote for the candidate of your choice at the office of the returning officer in the electoral district where you are currently located. You can also go there to register on the list of electors or modify your registration.
You have four hours to vote
Courtesy of Elections Quebec, 2022
If you work on election day, it is important to know that your employer is required to give you at least four hours to vote without penalty or reduction in salary, under certain conditions. You can request this time if your shift is during the opening hours of the polling stations.
For example, if you usually work from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., your employer may, upon request, allow you to start at 1:30 p.m. or let you leave at 4:00 p.m.
Everything has been put in place to allow everyone to vote, so you might as well go vote!
Apply to work election
Courtesy of Elections Quebec, 2022
If you want to experience the election differently, you can work during the election period if you are 16 or older, have lived in Québec for at least six months and are a Canadian citizen.
Pay ranges from $15.68 to $27.92 per hour, and it’s a great opportunity to learn about the process and gain some great experience for your resume. The registration page is only in French. If you wish to apply, click here.
Also, under the Election lawmost students have election day off.
The voting process may seem complicated at first glance, but it is actually simple and adaptable to everyone thanks to the hard work and dedication of Élections Québec staff.
To learn more about elections and voting, visit the Elections Quebec website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or YouTube.
This article was originally published in French on Narcity Quebec.
