Voting is the most powerful way to make your voice heard in the democratic process and ensure that the issues that matter most to you are addressed by the country’s leaders. Healthcare, employment, housing, education, the economy, the environment — and more recently, new trade relations with the United States — are all topics that directly impact our daily lives. Every vote counts and has the power to shape Canada’s future.
If you’re a new voter or preparing to vote for the first time, remember that the process is simple — but your participation is essential to keep democracy functioning. Stay informed, get registered, and make a difference!
How Federal Elections Work in Canada
Unlike Brazil, where voters elect the president directly, in Canada’s federal elections we vote to elect Members of Parliament (MPs) who represent our local districts (ridings) in the House of Commons. The party that wins the most MPs is usually invited by the Governor General to form the government, and the leader of that party becomes the Prime Minister.
If no party wins a majority of seats, a minority government is formed. In this case, the leading party must rely on support from opposition parties to pass legislation. The party with the second-largest number of elected MPs becomes the official opposition.
Who Can Vote?
Any Canadian citizen aged 18 or older has the right to vote. Immigrants must be naturalized citizens in order to register and vote.
New voters can register online, by phone, or in person during the voter registration period. On election day, voters go to designated polling stations, usually located in schools or community centres. You’ll need to bring valid ID and confirm your residential address. Voting is confidential, and you mark your choice clearly on a paper ballot.
How to Vote
Plan ahead and choose the voting method that works best for you. You can vote on election day or in advance.
Your voting options:
- By mail (advance voting): Apply online or at any Elections Canada office by 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22. You will vote using a special ballot. Once you register to vote by mail, you cannot change your mind and vote in person early or on election day.
- At an Elections Canada office (advance voting): There are around 500 offices open across the country. You can vote at any of them by 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 22. Visit the official government website to find the office closest to you.
- At your assigned polling station (advance voting): Advance voting takes place between April 18 and 21, 2025. Check your voting location on the official government site.
- At your assigned polling station (on election day): Vote in person at your designated location on Monday, April 28. Polls will be open for 12 hours (times vary by time zone).
Meet the Leaders of Canada’s Major Political Parties
Liberal Party
Leader: Mark Carney
A former Governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, Carney became the Liberal leader in March 2025, succeeding Justin Trudeau. His leadership focuses on strengthening Canada’s economy amid global challenges, including trade tensions with the U.S.
More info: liberal.ca
Conservative Party
Leader: Pierre Poilievre
Known for his strict fiscal stance and tax-cutting proposals, Poilievre is a vocal critic of Trudeau’s economic policies and focuses on tackling the rising cost of living. The party promotes a more conservative approach to immigration and government intervention.
More info: conservative.ca
New Democratic Party (NDP)
Leader: Jagmeet Singh
Singh champions social justice, equality, and progressive policies. The NDP supports greater government involvement in healthcare, education, and environmental protection, and strongly advocates for workers’ rights. While not a dominant party, it attracts voters seeking systemic change.
More info: ndp.ca
Green Party
Co-leaders: Elizabeth May and Jonathan Pedneault
Focused on sustainability and climate action, the Green Party appeals to environmentally conscious voters, especially younger Canadians. Despite its smaller presence in Parliament, its influence is growing.
More info: greenparty.ca
Bloc Québécois
Leader: Yves-François Blanchet
The Bloc advocates for Quebec’s independence and the preservation of French language and culture. It has a strong base in Quebec but limited influence outside the province.
More info: pq.org
This post was originally written in Portuguese and translated into English with the assistance of AI. It has been edited for clarity.
