Voter registration deadlines for U.S. citizens living in Slovakia vary by state, with some requiring registration 30 days before an election. The Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) website provides detailed information on state-specific deadlines. To participate in elections as an overseas absentee voter, individuals should complete a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) annually.
For those who have already submitted an FPCA in 2024, blank ballots or instructions for accessing them should be arriving soon. Voters can verify the status of their absentee ballot request through their state's voter registration verification website or by contacting local election offices. Using the FPCA ensures ballots are sent at least 45 days before the election.
Completed ballots can be returned to local election officials free of charge via drop-off at the U.S. Embassy or mailed directly at personal expense. With transit times to the United States potentially reaching up to 20 days, voters are advised to return ballots promptly and no later than October 4.
The FVAP encourages spreading awareness about overseas voting eligibility among friends, family, and colleagues. For first-time overseas voters, the process involves completing and submitting an FPCA, receiving a ballot, and returning it either through the embassy or directly by mail.
The online voting assistant on FVAP.gov facilitates FPCA completion by providing state-specific guidance and options for electronic ballot delivery when available. Including an email address is recommended for efficient communication.
After submitting an FPCA, most states offer online portals for voters to confirm registration and ballot delivery details. Ballots are required to be sent out 45 days prior to federal elections once an FPCA is completed.
Ballots can also be returned via email in some states; specifics are available in FVAP’s Voting Assistance Guide. A friend or family member may deliver election materials to the embassy if necessary.
Every vote is significant as many U.S. elections are determined by narrow margins. States must count all valid absentee ballots received by their respective deadlines.
For updates on election dates and deadlines, individuals can subscribe to FVAP’s Voting Alerts via email (vote@fvap.gov), Facebook, or Twitter. Questions regarding overseas voting procedures can be directed to BratislavaACS@state.gov.
Election materials need only sufficient U.S. postage or placement in a postage-paid envelope template available on FVAP's website.