Federal Elections
Canadians elect representatives at three levels — federal, provincial/territorial, and municipal. The right to vote is one of the most fundamental of democratic rights.
Who can vote in a federal election
To vote in a federal election you must be: - A Canadian citizen. - At least 18 years old on election day. - On the National Register of Electors (you can register at the polls).
Ridings and the House of Commons
Canada is divided into about 343 ridings (also called constituencies or electoral districts). Each riding elects one Member of Parliament to the House of Commons. The boundaries are redrawn periodically to reflect population changes.
How an election plays out
- The party that wins the most seats forms the government, and its leader becomes Prime Minister.
- The party with the second-most seats usually becomes Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition, whose job is to hold the government accountable.
- If no party wins a majority, the result is a minority government that must work with other parties to pass laws.
Federal political parties
Active major parties include the: - Liberal Party of Canada - Conservative Party of Canada - New Democratic Party (NDP) - Bloc Québécois (runs only in Quebec) - Green Party of Canada
Smaller registered parties and independent candidates also run.
When elections are held
Federal elections must be held at least once every four years. The Prime Minister can ask the Governor General to dissolve Parliament earlier — for example, after a defeat on a confidence vote.
Voting day
Polls are open for 12 hours. By law, employees must be given three consecutive hours away from work to vote. Elections Canada is the independent body that runs federal elections. You can also vote: - by mail (special ballot); - at any Elections Canada office before election day; - at advance polls held the weekend before election day.
Bring proof of identity and address. Volunteers help non-English and non-French speakers vote — every voter has the right to ask for translation help.