Act to amend the criteria for voting by voters outside Quebec

Summary#

• Bill 18 amends the Election Act (E-3.3) to expand mail-in voting for voters temporarily outside of Quebec.
• The maximum absence period increases from 2 to 5 years for voting by mail after leaving Quebec.
• New rule for studies: a voter absent for educational purposes can vote by mail for the entire duration of their program, without a time limit related to their departure.
• A student’s mail-in voting application must be accompanied by proof of enrollment at the educational institution.
• Articles 282, 283, and 286 of the Election Act are amended accordingly. The provisions will come into effect on the date of assent.

What This Means for You#

• If you are a voter from Quebec temporarily outside (work, travel, internship, mission, family reasons), you will be able to vote by mail for up to 5 years after your departure. Previously, it was 2 years.
• If you are outside for studies (in Canada or abroad), you will be able to vote by mail for the entire duration of your absence related to studies. You will need to attach proof of enrollment with your application.
• Example: a student enrolled in a 4-year program in Ontario will be able to vote in Quebec provincial elections that occur during those 4 years.
• Beyond 5 years of absence for reasons other than studies, you will no longer be eligible for mail-in voting unless you return to Quebec or no longer meet the criteria for temporary absence.
• Other usual rules continue to apply (being a voter from Quebec, applying to Elections Quebec, meeting deadlines, and providing required documents).
• Mail-in voting is done by post. Plan for sending and return times.

Costs#

• Additional administrative costs are expected for Elections Quebec (processing applications, mailings and returns, verifications).
• No publicly available information.

Supporters' Viewpoint#

• Encourages the democratic participation of Quebecers who are away for longer periods for work, family, or personal projects.
• Acknowledges the reality of multi-year study programs and maintains the civic connection of students with their home riding.
• Simple and verifiable rule for students through proof of enrollment.
• Avoids excluding voters for a temporary absence slightly longer than 2 years.

Opponents' Viewpoint#

• Concerns that people who are absent for long periods may influence provincial political choices without living in Quebec on a daily basis.
• Logistical risks: more mail routing, delays, errors, and increased verification burden for Elections Quebec.
• Equity concern: a more generous system for students than for other prolonged absences (e.g., work abroad).
• Some would prefer to maintain a shorter limit to confirm an active link with Quebec.