As the 2024 South African Elections approach, the main question remain: How to register to vote online for next year 2024 Elections South Africa. The Independent Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC) encourages all citizens to exercise their democratic right to vote.
Eligibility for Online Voter Registration
To be eligible to register to vote online, you must meet the following criteria:
- Must be voting for the first time
- Be a South African citizen
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Be in possession of a valid South African ID document (green barcoded ID book, smart ID card, or temporary ID certificate)
Step-by-Step on How to register to vote online for next year 2024 Elections
To make the registration process convenient and accessible, the IEC has introduced an online voter registration system, allowing you to register from the comfort of your own home.
Total Time: 10 minutes
Access the Voter Information Portal: Visit the IEC’s Voter Information Portal at registertovote.elections.org.za.
Initiate Application: Click on the “Begin Application Process” button.
Enter Personal Information: Provide your ID number, name, surname, and mobile number.
Confirm OTP: Enter the One-Time Password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number.
Capture Address Details: Provide your accurate residential address, including province, municipality, local government, ward number, street name, and house number.
Upload ID Document Photo: Upload a clear photo or scanned copy of your South African ID document (green barcoded ID book, smart ID card, or temporary ID certificate).
Review and Submit: Carefully review all the information you have entered and click on the “Submit” button to finalize your application.
Await Confirmation: You will receive an SMS notification confirming your application. You should receive a further SMS within 24 hours confirming your registration status.
Additional Registration Options
If you are unable to register online, you can still register to vote using the following methods:
- Voter Registration Weekend: Visit your local voting station during the designated Voter Registration Weekend.
- IEC Office: Visit your local IEC office during office hours.
- SMS: Send your ID number to 32810 (R1.00 per SMS).
- IEC Call Centre: Call the IEC toll-free number, 0800 11 8000 (available only during election periods).
- IEC Mobile App: Download and use the IEC South Africa mobile app on your smartphone.
Easy questions
1. Who can register to vote online?
All eligible voters, including first-time voters, can register or update their registration details online. To be eligible, you must be a South African citizen, at least 16 years of age, and in possession of a valid South African ID document (green barcoded ID book, smart ID card, or temporary ID certificate).
2. Why should I register to vote online?
Online voter registration is a safe, quick, easy, and convenient platform available 24/7 until the voters’ roll for an election closes with proclamation. It allows you to register from the comfort of your own home, without having to stand in queues at voting stations or IEC offices.
3. When can I register online?
The online voter registration facility is available 24/7 until the voters’ roll for the 2024 South African Elections closes with proclamation. The exact closing date will be announced by the IEC in due course.
4. How long does it take to register online?
The online voter registration process takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete.
5. How do I know if my registration was successful?
You will receive an SMS notification confirming your application. You should receive a further SMS within 24 hours confirming your registration status.
7. What if I make a mistake during the registration process?
You can start the process afresh, or contact the IEC Call Centre at 0800 11 8000 for assistance.
8. What happens if I don’t register to vote?
If you are eligible to vote but do not register, you will not be able to cast your ballot in the 2024 South African Elections. Your voice will not be heard in shaping the future of South Africa.
9. Will I be able to choose the political party I want to vote for on the next general elections while registering online?
No, remember this process is for you to be on the voter’s roll, in other words you are letting IEC to print enough ballot papers including yours. You only choose a political party when you cast your ballot paper in person, and that will be next year.
10. Is it a crime not to vote?
No, you have a right to vote or not to vote, is just that, if you don’t vote, someone might vote for a political party you do not like, whereas your vote was going to change things for your good.
Remember, your vote is your voice. By registering to vote, you are actively participating in shaping the future of South Africa.
