Register as a new voter using Form 6

Who this is for

A person seeking first inclusion in the electoral roll.

Before you start

Before applying, search the official roll for an existing entry and read the current Form 6 and document instructions.

Key points

• The Election Commission’s current registration FAQ says a general elector must be an Indian citizen, at least 18 on a qualifying date, ordinarily resident in the relevant polling area, and not otherwise disqualified.
• The FAQ lists four qualifying dates in a year: 1 January, 1 April, 1 July, and 1 October. Check the current ECI instructions for the applicable electoral-roll revision.
• Form 6 is for a new voter’s first inclusion. Its declaration asks the applicant to confirm that their name is not already included in another constituency. If you are already enrolled and need a correction or address change, check Form 8 instead.

What to prepare

• A recent, unsigned colour passport-size photograph with a white background. The ECI Form 6 guidelines specify 4.5 cm × 3.5 cm.
• Age proof: the current form lists documents such as a birth certificate, Aadhaar, PAN, driving licence, a Class X or XII certificate that shows date of birth, an Indian passport, or another supporting document if none of the listed items is available.
• Ordinary-residence proof: the form lists options including a qualifying utility bill, Aadhaar, a bank or post-office passbook, passport, land record, registered rent lease, or registered sale deed. Check the current form for the full list and whose name may appear on the proof.
• Aadhaar is not the only proof option. Form 6 includes a box for an applicant who does not have an Aadhaar number. Review the current form before submitting documents.

Steps

1. Search the official electoral roll first. Do not submit a first-inclusion declaration without checking whether you are already enrolled.
2. Open the ECI Voters’ Services Portal and choose Form 6 for new voter registration. Form 6 is also available through the Electoral Registration Officer, Assistant ERO, or Booth Level Officer for an offline application.
3. Enter your ordinary-residence address and personal details carefully. Check spelling in the language fields and make sure the address is complete.
4. Attach the photograph and supporting age and residence documents. Complete every declaration truthfully. If the listed document options do not fit your situation, read the form guidelines about alternative documents and verification.
5. Submit the application and save the acknowledgement number. Use the portal’s application-status service to follow up.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using Form 6 to change an existing entry instead of checking the current Form 8 process.
• Skipping the electoral-roll search and accidentally declaring that this is a first application when a record already exists.
• Leaving a required declaration incomplete, entering an incorrect PIN code, or uploading a document that does not support the stated age or address.
• Assuming submission itself confirms inclusion. Check the application status and then verify the final electoral-roll entry.

Short answers

If something goes wrong

• If the portal rejects an upload or does not accept the form, check the file requirements shown on the ECI portal and try again. Keep your acknowledgement number for any submitted application.
• If status is unclear, use the official application-status page or contact the ERO/BLO. ECI’s registration FAQ also directs applicants to voter support at 1950; add your area’s STD code before dialling, as the ECI FAQ instructs.
• If an application is not approved or the entry is still absent, follow up with the responsible election-registration office. Do not treat the application receipt as confirmation that your name is on the roll.