The U.S. Embassy in Havana outlined on Tuesday the necessary steps for American citizens residing in Cuba to participate in the 2026 elections through absentee voting.
In a statement shared on its social media platforms, the embassy highlighted that voter registration deadlines differ by state, with some requiring registration up to 30 days before an election.
This notification is aimed at U.S. citizens who are living or temporarily staying abroad and wish to exercise their right to vote.
To participate, they must fill out the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA).
The embassy advised submitting this form annually, even for those who have previously used absentee voting from overseas, to ensure participation in all applicable federal elections.
The process can be completed through the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP), which assists in filling out the FPCA according to the specific requirements of the voter's registered state.
Once filled out and signed, citizens can submit the form to the U.S. Embassy in Havana, which will forward it free of charge to the appropriate U.S. electoral authorities.
To do this, individuals must first make an appointment by emailing ACSHavana@state.gov.
Alternatively, they can personally deliver the document to the United States or send it through other means, although costs incurred will be the responsibility of the voter.
The embassy also mentioned that those who have already submitted an FPCA in 2026 should check the status of their application via their state's election website or by directly contacting their local election office.
Federal law mandates that election authorities send ballots to voters covered by overseas voting rules at least 45 days before a federal election.
The FVAP advises returning ballots with ample lead time due to international mail delays.
In Cuba, the embassy cautioned that mailing election documents to the U.S. could take up to 30 days, urging voters to complete and return ballots promptly upon receipt.
Completed ballots can also be delivered to the embassy for free forwarding to local electoral authorities.
Documents should have sufficient U.S. postage or be placed in pre-paid envelopes available through the FVAP.
The general elections are set for November 3, 2026, coinciding with the U.S. midterm elections.
These elections will not include the presidential race but will involve all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and approximately one-third of the Senate. Additionally, various states will hold elections for governors, state legislatures, and other state and local positions.
The embassy's announcement is intended to simplify the voting process for U.S. citizens in Cuba, enabling them to participate in elections without needing to return to the U.S. solely to vote.
Voting from Cuba: Key Questions Answered
How can U.S. citizens in Cuba participate in the 2026 elections?
U.S. citizens in Cuba can take part in the 2026 elections by completing the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) and submitting it to the U.S. Embassy in Havana or through other means.
What are the deadlines for voter registration?
Voter registration deadlines vary by state, with some states requiring registration up to 30 days before the election.
What should voters do after sending their FPCA?
After sending the FPCA, voters should check the status of their application via their state's election website or by contacting their local election office directly.