GE2025 Singapore Voting Guide: 15 FAQs for Employers and Voters

GeneralApril 16, 2025 10:00

Singapore will hold its General Election (GE2025) on Saturday, May 3, 2025 — and Polling Day is an official public holiday.

Whether you’re an employer managing staff entitlements, a first-time voter casting your ballot, or simply curious about workplace obligations, you probably have practical questions: Do employees get paid if they’re not scheduled to work? What happens if an employer refuses to give time off? What documents are needed to vote?

This guide answers the 15 most common FAQs about voting rights, workplace arrangements, and Polling Day rules — with no politics, just facts. All information is based on official sources such as the Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Elections Department (ELD), and gov.sg.

🗓️ Public Holiday & Work Entitlements

1. Is Polling Day a Public Holiday?

Yes. Polling Day on Saturday, May 3, 2025, is an official public holiday under Singapore law.

2. What If an Employee Is Not Scheduled to Work on Polling Day?

Even if the day is a non-working day, MOM states that employees are entitled to an extra day’s salary or time off in lieu.

3. Are Employers Required to Give Time Off to Vote?

Yes. Voting is compulsory. Employers must provide staff with reasonable time off to vote if they are scheduled to work.

4. Are There Penalties for Employers Who Don’t Allow Time Off to Vote?

Yes. Employers can face penalties if they refuse to give employees time to vote.

🗳️ Voting Process & Requirements

5. What Are the Polling Hours?

Polling stations are open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

6. What Should I Bring to Vote?

Bring your NRIC or passport. A poll card is useful but not compulsory.

7. What If I Lost My Poll Card?

You can still vote as long as you bring your NRIC or passport to your assigned polling station.

8. Can I Vote If I’m Overseas?

Yes. Registered overseas voters may cast their vote at designated overseas polling stations or by postal voting (if eligible).

9. Is Voting Mandatory in Singapore?

Yes. All eligible citizens must vote. Those who don’t vote without valid reasons may be removed from the electoral roll.

10. What If I’m Sick or On Medical Leave?

You may still be required to vote. The Elections Department (ELD) provides special arrangements such as priority queues — check their website for details.

11. What Happens If I Don’t Vote?

Your name may be removed from the register. To regain voting rights, you must apply for reinstatement and provide a valid reason.

🚫 Election Rules

12. What Is a Cooling-Off Day?

The day before Polling Day (Friday, May 2, 2025) is Cooling-Off Day. Campaigning is strictly prohibited.

13. Can Campaigning Continue on Polling Day?

No. Campaigning is not allowed on either Cooling-Off Day or Polling Day.

14. Can Permanent Residents Vote?

No. Only Singaporean citizens are eligible to vote.

👥 First-Time Voter Tips

15. What Are the Most Common Questions from First-Time Voters?

Where do I vote? — Check the Elections Department (ELD) website for your polling station.
What should I bring? — Just your NRIC or passport.
How long will it take? — Usually under 15 minutes. Avoid peak hours (11am–1pm, 6–7:30pm).

Final Thoughts

This election isn’t just a civic milestone — it also has real workplace implications. Whether you’re leading a business or voting for the first time, being informed ensures smooth participation for everyone.

👉 Planning your leave ahead? Read our 2026 Public Holidays & Leave Guide.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided in our blog articles is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon as such.

While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, the ever-evolving nature of certain topics may result in content becoming outdated or inaccurate over time. We recommend consulting official sources such as MOM, ELD, and gov.sg for the latest updates. Any actions taken based on the information contained in our blog articles are solely at the reader's discretion and risk.

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