​​Elections Canada Just Explained What Voting Will Look Like During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Following the official announcement that Canada's 44th federal general election is now underway, Elections Canada has promised that there will be "many safe options to vote."

In a notice shared on Sunday — the same day that Trudeau formally announced a snap election in Canada — the agency explained what Canadians need to know ahead of election day on Monday, September 20.

On election day itself, electors will be able to vote in person at their assigned polling station, Elections Canada confirmed. They'll also be able to vote in person on advance polling days too, which will be from Friday, September 10 to Monday, September 13.

Canadians who don't feel comfortable visiting a polling station right now can apply online to vote via mail, although it's important to note that deadlines apply.

"Elections Canada encourages electors to plan early to choose the voting option that best suits them," reads the agency's advice.

Will there be public health measures in place?

Because of the ongoing pandemic, Elections Canada says it has worked alongside public health authorities to implement "a range of measures at polling places and Elections Canada offices to protect electors, election workers and political participants."

Polling stations are expected to implement physical distancing rules, in addition to providing face masks and single-use pencils to voters. Hand sanitizing stations will also be available.

Return envelopes with prepaid postage will be provided to those who vote by mail and the capacity of the vote-by-mail system is set to be increased.

Who is eligible to vote?

Canadian citizens who are at least 18 years old on September 20, 2021, are eligible to vote.

They must check they are registered to vote or register by using Canada's Online Voter Registration Service or by calling Elections Canada at 1-800-463-6868. It's also possible to register in person at polling stations on election day.