The release of the Electoral Boundaries Review Committee (EBRC) in March is a strong signal that the general election (GE) in Singapore, which must be held by November, is near.
Signs are pointing towards an early-May date for Polling Day. The parties have been ramping up activities, pounding the pavement, staking claims and announcing new candidates.
For first-time voters, the whole process can feel overwhelming.
How to vote is not taught in schools. What does one take to the polling station? What does a voter need to do? How does it work?
If you're feeling lost, don't worry, we've got you covered - from what to take with you to how to cast your vote. Here's all you need to know as a first-time voter.
"Am I eligible to vote?"
Eligibility to vote depends on whether your name is included in the certified Registers of Electors.
To vote in GE2025, you must meet the following criteria as at Feb 1, 2025:
- Be a Singapore citizen (holder of pink NRIC)
- Be at least 21 years old
- Not be disqualified under any prevailing law
- Have a Singapore residential address on your NRIC, or if residing overseas with an overseas NRIC address, have a registered Local Contact Address in Singapore with the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority
If you turn 21 only after the cut-off date, you have to wait for the next election to vote.
Unsure if you're eligible? You can check your eligibility online via the Elections Department Services.
"Which is my constituency?"
The EBRC's report proposed several changes.
There are now 18 group representation constituencies (GRCs) and 15 single-member constituencies (SMCs). Of these, five GRCs and six SMCs are new additions.
Not sure if your constituency has changed? You can check where you belong by entering your postal code here.
While a few parties have started declaring where they plan to stand, the final line-up will be confirmed only on Nomination Day - so expect things to really heat up then.
"Wait, but I've got to go to work!"
Polling Day is a public holiday, and polling hours are from 8am to 8pm. If you are required to work during these hours, you should request time off from your employer to cast your vote.
To avoid long queues, you can check the number of voters at your allotted polling station using VoteQ, a website that will be activated on the day of voting.
Remember, voting is compulsory. If you fail to vote without a valid reason, your name will be removed from the Registers of Electors after the election.
"Now, what do I bring along?"
Before heading out, double-check your name and polling station location on your poll card or ePoll card. You can vote only at the polling station stated on your card.
Do not forget to take with you to the polling station:
- Your poll card or ePoll card (available on the Singpass mobile app)
- An acceptable document of identity, such as your original or digital NRIC, identity cards issued by the Ministry of Defence, Singapore Police Force, or Singapore Civil Defence Force for uniformed personnel, or passport
Avoid taking large bags, pets (except guide dogs) or children to the polling station. Bags may be subjected to security checks at the entrance.
You cannot have on you any document, material, attire or badge that bears a political party's or candidate's symbol.
"I'm at the polling station. How do I indicate my vote?"
Once you're at the polling station, you'll receive your ballot paper.
Head over to a booth and using the self-inking stamp provided, mark an "X" in the box next to your chosen candidate.
Fold your ballot paper inwards and drop it into the ballot box.
Do not write anything else or sign on the ballot paper - that will spoil your vote.
Do not try to take the ballot paper out of the station or slip anything else into the ballot box. It's not a suggestion box.
Cameras and phones are not allowed at the booths.
Your vote is confidential. Respect your fellow voters' privacy - no peeking or asking whom they are voting for.
- For updates on this year's GE, stay tuned to tnp.sg
