BRITISH citizens living abroad can now register to vote in the upcoming general election regardless of how long they’ve been living outside the UK. 

BCP Council is supporting the Electoral Commission’s campaign to raise awareness of this change by asking residents to spread the word and tell friends and family living abroad to check if they are eligible. 

Residents outside the country can register online at www.gov.uk/registertovote and will need to confirm their personal information every three years. 

Graham Farrant, chief executive of BCP Council and the authority’s returning officer, said: “This change means that more British citizens living abroad who previously lived in Bournemouth, Christchurch or Poole may now be eligible to register to vote and vote in the forthcoming parliamentary election. 

“If you know anyone who used to live locally and is now living abroad, please help us to spread the word so they are aware of this new change. 

He added: “They may wish to apply sooner rather than later, because we know there'll be a General Election sometime in the next 10 months.” 

The government estimates that the abolishment of the 15-year rule could mean three million overseas British citizens could be eligible to vote. 

Applicants will need to provide details of the address and time they were last registered or resident. BCP Council must be able to verify an applicant’s identity and past connection to the area.