A move doesn't just require organization to ensure that everything goes smoothly on D-day. It also requires a healthy dose of anticipation, particularly when it comes to administrative formalities. Not least among these is re-registration on the electoral roll! Les Gentlemen du Déménagement explains how to go about changing your electoral roll following your move.
Can I vote without changing my address?
If your move involves a change of commune, and your new address is different from the one you gave when you registered to vote, it is highly likely that you will be removed from the electoral rolls. To check your status on the lists of your previous place of residence, the French Ministry of the Interior advises you to use the teleservice available on their online procedure site.
If you are removed from the electoral roll, you will of course no longer be able to vote. You will then have to re-register on the electoral roll of your new town. It's perfectly possible to register during the year. However, if you wish to take part in a particular election, be sure to keep an eye on the registration deadline! You can register on the electoral rolls of your new home until the sixth Friday before the first round of the election.
Are you still on the electoral roll of your former commune? There's nothing to stop you voting there, either in person - with a simple piece of ID - or by proxy.
However, the French Ministry of the Interior reminds you that you will then need to notify your change of address!
Moving to the same commune: why report a change of address?
If you're moving within the same town, remember to notify the Mairie of your change of address. Why should you do this? Simply because the polling station to which your new address is attached may be different from that of your old address. To carry out this simple administrative procedure, bring proof of address and the Cerfa form n°12699*02. You can then send your documents by post or via the Ministry of the Interior's Teleservice, or drop them off directly at the Mairie.
Moving abroad: how do I vote?
Any French citizen living for more than 6 consecutive months in a foreign country may vote in elections organized in France. While proxy voting is one option, it is also possible to vote in person by registering on the consular electoral roll. To do so, simply register either at the embassy or consulate of your country of residence, or online.
Please note that once you have registered on the consular electoral roll, your registration on the electoral roll in France is deleted. So you won't be able to change your mind about returning to France to cast your vote! When you return to France for good, you'll also need to ask to be removed from the consular register.
What documents do I need to apply to register on the electoral roll when I move?
To register on the electoral roll following a move, you'll need to provide the French authorities with a Cerfa n°12669*02 form, proof of identity and proof of address less than three months old. Accepted documents include rent receipts, electricity, gas, water and Internet bills, pay slips, tax returns and a CAF statement showing housing benefit payments.
Les Gentlemen du déménagement is at your service for all your moving projects. Contact us today!