Special votes explained for LGE 2026
Who qualifies, when to apply, and what home / station special voting means.
10 September 2026 · 6 min
What is a special vote?
A way to vote before Election Day if you cannot attend your ordinary voting station on 4 November 2026.
Typical reasons
- Physical infirmity / disability
- Pregnancy-related
- Being on official duty (e.g. election staff)
- Other categories published by the IEC
Key dates (timetable)
- Applications open / close per IEC election timetable (check elections.org.za for exact cut-offs — applications to CEO closed mid-October in the gazetted timetable).
- Special voting days: **2–3 November 2026**, 08:00–17:00
Always verify dates on the official IEC site — timetables can have legal cut-off times at 17:00.