Posted in the UK forum- Expat voting in the UK

[FunkyLeprechaun]

I had originally posted in the UK forum, not realising there was a Democrats Abroad forum (LeftishBrit suggested I post this here):

Last night I had a discussion with my British friends in the pub and they said that I cannot vote in the US if I own a house in the UK (I have residency AND citizenship in the UK in addition to my US citizenship) (I will very very soon once the mortgage goes through). I really want to vote in 2008.

Are they wrong? I always thought keeping onto my American citizenship meant I still had the right to vote in the US.

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Additionally, I would like some information that I would like to give to my friends regarding this. Just want to inform them a bit better.

Thank you.

Zen

[MaineDem]

1. Contact these folks

http://demsabroad.org/

They have tons of information. Contact the UK chapter and they can update you as to the law.

[Flyfish]

2. Not to worry

I am an expat myself living in Singapore. I have a good friend from NY who has lived in Hong Kong for the past 16 years and has permanent residence status there. He owns a home in CT and one in New Zealand (where he plans to retire).
He votes in every election (unfortunately he votes republican).

My wife and I have lived in Asia for the past 12 years and always vote. I know quite a few other American expats and this point about overseas home ownership you bring up is something I have never heard before.

My advice to you is not to worry. It sounds like some Brits are pulling your leg. Good luck with your new home.

Cheers

[WritersBlock]

3. I've always put "purchased home" on my IRS form 2555, and haven't had a problem.

I agree with the poster above - someone's pulling your leg. :)

[BooScout]

4. Flat out..........they are wrong.

Dual citizenship or ownng a home in another country does not prevent you from voting in the Presidential election.