Step-by-Step: How to Vote from France
- Step 1 — Know your voting state: You vote in the last US state where you were domiciled (had a permanent home), regardless of whether you still have an address there.
- Step 2 — Register and request your absentee ballot: Use the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) at FVAP.gov. This single form registers you AND requests your absentee ballot. Do this at least 6 months before any election.
- Step 3 — Receive your ballot: Your state election office will send your ballot to your France address (or email/fax if your state allows). Check your state's deadline — most are 30–45 days before election day.
- Step 4 — Complete and return your ballot: Follow your state's specific instructions. Mail via La Poste (allow 5–7 business days to the US), email/fax if permitted, or deliver via DHL/FedEx for security.
- Step 5 — Track your ballot: Most states offer ballot tracking. Check at your state election website or via FVAP tools.
Key Voting Organizations for Americans in France
FVAP — Federal Voting Assistance Program
The official US government program for overseas voter registration and absentee ballots. Start here for all voting needs.
VoteFromAbroad.org (Democrats Abroad)
Easiest way to complete and submit the FPCA online. Provides state-specific instructions and ballot request tracking. Widely used by all Americans abroad, regardless of party.
Democrats Abroad — France Chapter
Largest overseas political organization. Active events, voting drives, primary participation, and social community. Open to all US citizens in France.
Republicans Overseas — France
Organization for Republican-leaning Americans abroad. Voting assistance and community events.
You Can Vote in the Primary from France Too!
Democrats Abroad and Republicans Overseas both run Global Primary elections — allowing Americans abroad to participate in the US presidential primary process directly from France, online. Democrats Abroad has been running global primaries since 2008. Register at democratsabroad.org/register
Renunciation
Giving up your US citizenship & voting rights