Make sure you're registered to vote

Should there be a General Election, a European Election or a Referendum, if you aren't registered to vote, you can't participate. And you have to register yourself; no one else can do it for you.

The Government is making preparations for the contingency of holding the European Parliamentary Elections on 23 May. The registration deadline for the European Parliamentary elections is midnight on 7 May.

To add your name to the electoral register go online to the register to vote website. It only takes five minutes and all you need is your name, address, date of birth and National Insurance number.

Oxford City Council Returning Officer, Anita Bradley, said: "At this turbulent time in British politics it pays to make sure you're registered to vote so that you can be sure you won't miss your chance to have a say should an election take place. Taking part in this country's democratic process is a well-founded right, but it is one that you can only take part in if you are registered. Don't miss out."

Registering is a legal requirement. Additionally, not being registered can mean more than not being able to vote. The register is used by companies to check when you apply for credit or mobile phone contracts, so if you're not on the register it may count against  you.        

You will need to re-register every time you move home. 

You can register if:

• you are 17 years old (and in some cases if you are 16). However, you can only vote when you become 18
• you are British or qualifying Commonwealth citizens. This means Commonwealth citizens who have leave to remain in the UK or do not require such leave
• you are a citizen of the Republic of Ireland or other European Union (EU) member states.

If you have any other questions about registering to vote or the electoral register visit the Your Vote Matters website.

If you would like to find out if you are already registered or would like an application form in paper form, phone our Electoral Registration Office on 01865 249811 or email elections@oxford.gov.uk.