How to Vote While Living Abroad: A Guide for Americans in Malaysia
As an American citizen living in Malaysia, you retain your right to participate in the US presidential elections. Voting from abroad may seem complex, but the process is straightforward with a bit of planning.
If you encounter any problems, the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur and organizations like the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) can help.
6 Steps to Voting Abroad
1. Register to Vote and Request Your Ballot
The first step in voting from abroad is ensuring that you are registered to vote in the US. You can complete the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA). The FPCA serves two purposes:
Registers you to vote
Requests an absentee ballot
You may fill out the FPCA online at the FVAP website or use the PDF form to mail to your local election office.
Other options include:
Overseas Vote Foundation: a nonpartisan, nonprofit public charity established in 2005
VoteFromAbroad.org: a nonpartisan site run by Democrats Abroad
It’s recommended to send in the FPCA early in the election year, but you can submit it at any time.
2. Receive Your Absentee Ballot
Once your local election office processes your FPCA, you will receive your absentee ballot. Ballots are typically sent out 45 days before the general election. In Malaysia, you might receive your ballot via email, fax, or regular mail, depending on your preferences and state regulations.
If you haven’t received your ballot at least 30 days before the election, you may use the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) as a backup. This generic ballot can be used to vote for federal offices, including the President.
3. Fill Out Your Ballot
When you receive your ballot, carefully follow the instructions provided. Make sure to complete the ballot accurately and sign where required. Pay attention to any witness or notary requirements that might apply, depending on your home state.
4. Return Your Ballot
Returning your ballot on time is crucial. Depending on your state’s regulations, you can return your ballot by mail, fax, or email. If mailing your ballot, consider using an express mail service to ensure timely delivery.
In Malaysia, you can also return your ballot through the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur. The two most frequently used ways are:
Drop-off Ballots: Voters may drop off voting materials at the voting box located at the front entrance of the US Embassy any business day between 9am and 3pm.
Mail Ballots: Voters can mail ballots to the US Embassy at the address below. The US Embassy will forward the ballots to your local election office in the United States.
Attn: Consular Section, Voting Assistance Officer
376 Jalan Tun Razak
50400 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The Embassy provides a free diplomatic pouch service that forwards your ballot to the United States. Make sure to drop off your ballot well before the deadline to ensure it arrives on time.
According to the Embassy website, it can take up to one month for mail to reach its destination in the United States, if sent via diplomatic pouch. Ballots will be forwarded as soon as they are received at the Embassy.
Iif time is limited, consider sending your election materials through another method:
International Mail or Courier Service: You may send your ballot in the mail with appropriate international postage. You may also use private courier services such as FedEx, DHL, or UPS. Keep in mind, though, that FedEx does not deliver to P.O. boxes.
Fax, Email, or Online: Some states permit electronic transmission of completed ballots. Consult the Voting Assistance Guide for options in your state.
5. Track Your Ballot
Many states allow you to track the status of your absentee ballot. You can check whether your ballot was received and counted by contacting your local election office or visiting your state's election website.
6. Stay Informed
Ensure you stay updated on any changes to voting procedures that might affect your ability to vote abroad. The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) is an excellent resource for information and updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state do I vote in?
Generally, use your last residential address in the United States as your voting address, even if it’s somewhere you no longer have ties. No mail will be sent there. You may also be able to use the address linked to a valid driver’s license or state-issued I.D.
You can also change your place of registration, subject to state residency requirements, but keep in mind there may be tax implications.
What about members of the military?
Service members and spouses who are stationed overseas cannot vote at their military installations and should follow the same process for registering and requesting an absentee ballot. This list provides recommended dates for mailing your ballot based on your location. Help is also available at Installation Voter Assistance Offices.
What if I’m studying abroad?
If your school is outside your home state, you can register in either place (but not both), subject to state residency requirements. The Campus Vote Project has student guides for individual states. Follow the same process for registering and requesting an absentee ballot.
What if I’ve never lived in the United States?
Most states allow Americans who have never resided in the United States to use the voting address of a citizen parent.
How do I learn more about candidates?
Research candidates and issues using the FVAP website. FVAP also regularly sends information about election dates and deadlines through their Voting Alerts. Email vote@fvap.gov to subscribe or follow FVAP on Facebook, LinkedIn, or Twitter.
Don’t forget to save the date for AAM’s Presidential Debate Watch Party on September 11. For more information, check out of our calendar.