The official campaign for the municipal elections commenced on Tuesday, September 30. In two weeks, Portuguese citizens will head to the polls to select their local municipal council, municipal assembly, and parish council representatives. But what about those unable to vote in person? Is early voting an option?
Yes, voting in advance is possible, although it differs from legislative, European, or presidential elections.
The National Election Commission (CNE) offers a document on their website detailing how citizens can vote in advance.
Who is eligible for this? “Registered voters in Portugal who, for professional reasons, are away on election day,” the document states.
Eligible professions include military personnel, internal security service agents, firefighters, civil protection agents, maritime and aeronautical workers, long-distance railway and road workers, members of official state delegations, and national team representatives.
Also included are “voters representing any public, private, or cooperative sector entity, labor organizations, or economic activity organizations, who cannot go to the polling station on election day due to job duties,” and “voters unable to attend the polling station due to professional duties.”
How to vote in advance? When?
The CNE explains that between October 2 and 7, voters should approach the mayor of their registered municipality to express their intention to vote early. They must present identification and a document proving the claimed impediment, signed by a superior or employer.
After voting, the voter receives proof of participation.
And what about students, patients, or prisoners? How can they vote?
Students, hospitalized patients, and prisoners not deprived of political rights must submit a request to the mayor of their registered municipality. Subsequently, the mayor will collect votes at educational institutions, hospitals, or prisons.
Requerimento que deve ser preenchido© Site/CNE
Note that the deadline to request early voting in these instances started on September 22 and ends on October 2.
Municipal Elections? Many Leaders Set to Change and 302 Parishes to Be Restored
The municipal elections, already in the campaign phase, will change the leadership of many municipalities as current leaders reach term limits, while 302 parishes, previously merged in 2013, will be reinstated.
The municipal elections on October 12, with the campaign starting today, will change leaders in numerous municipalities due to term limits and will restore 302 parishes merged in 2013.
Lusa | 06:02 – 30/09/2025
The municipal election campaign started on Tuesday, September 30, and will run until October 10.
Provisional CNE data estimates 817 political forces and movements are running in these elections, including 618 citizen group lists, 181 from various party coalitions, and 18 political parties.
