Filipino Overseas Voter Registration in Saudi for 2028 Philippine Elections

Overseas Filipino workers and other qualified Filipino citizens in Saudi Arabia can register as overseas voters for the 2028 Philippine national elections.

Registration started on December 1, 2025, and will continue until September 30, 2027.

In March 2026, COMELEC confirmed that overseas voter registration in the Middle East was continuing despite regional tensions, provided Philippine diplomatic offices remained operational.

Who Can Register to Vote?

Eligible applicants include Filipino citizens living in Saudi Arabia who will be at least 18 years old by May 8, 2028.

They must also meet the legal qualifications for overseas voting.

First-time voters, Filipinos previously registered in the Philippines, and existing overseas voters who need to reactivate or update their records may apply.

Where Can Filipinos Register in Saudi Arabia?

Unlike countries served by a single Philippine Embassy, Saudi Arabia has two main diplomatic offices where Filipinos can inquire about overseas voter registration.

Both addresses are listed in the DFA’s Saudi Arabia diplomatic directory.

They should not assume that every Migrant Workers Office or OWWA office automatically serves as a COMELEC registration center.

Requirements for Overseas Voter Registration

Applicants should prepare their accomplished OVF1 form and the applicable identification document.

These may include:

• Valid Philippine passport

• Seafarer’s Record Book for eligible seafarers

• Relevant citizenship approval or identification certificate for dual citizens

Applicants requesting record corrections or changes of name should also bring supporting documents.

How to Register in Saudi Arabia

1. Check whether your existing voter registration is active.

2. Download or prepare the OVF1 form.

3. Contact the Embassy in Riyadh or Consulate in Jeddah for current registration instructions.

4. Visit the appropriate authorized registration venue.

5. Present your documents and submit the application.

6. Complete the required verification and biometrics procedures.

7. Keep your acknowledgment receipt.

Filipinos transferring their overseas voter records from another country should inform the registration officer about their previous registration.

Is Online Voter Registration Available in Saudi Arabia?

COMELEC provides the iRehistro portal for overseas voters.

Applicants may accomplish their forms online before visiting the Embassy or Consulate.

However, iRehistro is not a fully online registration service.

Personal appearance remains necessary for first-time registration and the required biometrics procedures.

Existing overseas voters who already have complete biometrics may qualify for COMELEC’s Virtual Frontline Service for certain transactions, subject to the agency’s rules.

What Saudi-Based Filipinos Should Do Next

Filipinos should contact the Philippine office serving their area and complete the applicable registration process before September 30, 2027.

Those living far from Riyadh or Jeddah should watch for official consular outreach announcements.