Who can vote in Canadian elections
Federal Elections – Canada Citizenship Test Overview
Federal elections allow Canadians to choose who will represent them in Parliament. Elections determine which political party forms the government and who becomes the Prime Minister. Federal elections are a key part of Canadian democracy.
Who can vote in Canadian elections
1. Purpose of Federal Elections
Federal elections decide:
Members of Parliament (MPs)
Which party forms the government
Who leads the country as Prime Minister
Elections ensure citizens participate in the political process and influence national decisions.
Who can vote in Canadian elections
2. Who Can Vote
To vote in federal elections, a person must:
✔ Be a Canadian citizen
✔ Be at least 18 years old on election day
✔ Be registered to vote
Voting is a right and also a responsibility for Canadian citizens.
Who can vote in Canadian elections
3. Electoral Districts (Ridings)
Canada is divided into electoral districts, also called ridings.
Each riding elects one Member of Parliament (MP)
The candidate with the most votes wins the riding (first-past-the-post system)
Who can vote in Canadian elections
4. Political Parties
Political parties are groups of people with shared ideas and policies.
Major national parties typically include:
A leader
MP candidates in ridings across the country
A political platform (list of goals and policies)
Citizens may vote for a candidate even if they are not a member of a party.
Who can vote in Canadian elections
5. Formation of Government
After the election:
The party with the most elected MPs usually forms the government
Its leader becomes the Prime Minister
If a party wins more than half the seats, it forms a majority government
If not, it forms a minority government
Minority governments may need support from other parties to pass laws.
Who can vote in Canadian elections
6. The Role of Parliament in Elections
Elections decide the composition of:
The House of Commons
The ruling government
The Senate is not elected; senators are appointed and serve until age 75.
Who can vote in Canadian elections
7. Election Cycle
Federal elections are held:
Every four years (fixed-date elections)
OREarlier, if Parliament is dissolved
The Governor General may dissolve Parliament on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Who can vote in Canadian elections
8. Campaigns and Voting Process
During an election campaign:
Parties share platforms
Leaders debate
Candidates meet voters
Media discusses issues
Voting is usually done in person, but citizens may also request a mail-in ballot.
Who can vote in Canadian elections
9. After the Election
Once results are confirmed:
MPs take their seats in Parliament
A new government is formed
The Prime Minister selects a cabinet to help govern
