Voting from the Philippines

Can I still register to vote? 

This depends on your state - go to votefromabroad.org to check your state’s info or to confirm your registration status. 

How can I return my ballot from the Philippines? 

Return your ballot as quickly as possible, especially if your state only allows postal mail returns. Find your state's exact ballot return methods here.

Ballot return methods: rules vary by state

Local election officials and the US postal service expect to be overloaded in late October and early November with mailed ballots, so Democrats Abroad encourages all voters to return their ballots as early as possible.

Ballot submission by email, online upload or fax

These are the most secure and highly recommended methods.  Some states require submission of a physical ballot, but if they do not, please use these options! They are faster than postal mail and not subject to delay. More information on fax submission.

Ballot submission by postal mail

As of September, 2026, the Philippine Postal Service has resumed mail service to the USA. In general, we have found PhilPost to be quite reliable, if slow.  If this is your only option, allow at least 30 days before the election for mailing.  They have Express Mail, which is similar in cost and function to a private courier.  Similar cautions are in effect for use of the US Embassy’s diplomatic pouch, since their system is to take all submitted ballots to the US and put them in postal mail there.  If you drop your ballot in the diplomatic pouch, it must have correct US postage or be postage paid.  They will usually not accept ballot drop-offs later than 30 days before Election Day.

Ballot submission by private courier service

For states that do not permit fax or email ballot submission, this is the best way to ensure your ballot arrives expeditiously and is counted. Local election officials will not sign for courier envelopes, so do not select the option of having the recipient sign for the package. You should make sure a postmark or date stamp is placed on the outer envelope. Find out your state’s requirements here.  Many of our members have used courier services like Air 21, LBC, DHL. The cost is from PhP 3,500 to 4,500 and delivery takes about 3-4 business days from Metro Manila; it may take a few days longer from the provinces.

After sending in your ballot

Be sure to check that your ballot has been delivered and counted.  Go to VotefromAbroad.org/states, select your state, and scroll down to “Track My Ballot.” You can also look up your local election official contact info to directly follow up with them. 

Vote a Backup Ballot

All voters abroad are urged to vote their ballot promptly and to return it right away. If your state requires that you return a ballot by postal mail, consider also voting a Backup Ballot (the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot or FWAB). The Backup Ballot is available only to overseas voters as a kind of insurance for your vote. If both ballots arrive, only one will be counted. For more guidance on the Backup Ballot, go here.

Remember, you can always contact us at [email protected] for more help in registering, receiving, and returning your ballot.