Registration for voters abroad begins

South Africans living abroad can start registering for this year's elections with immediate effect, the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) announced.

The announcement came after President Jacob Zuma signed the Electoral Amendment Act, which would allow expatriates to register at diplomatic missions abroad.

"In terms of the amended regulations, South Africans living outside of the country who wish to vote in this year's national election are required to register in person either in South Africa or at one of South Africa's 124 embassies, high commissions, or consulates-general located in 108 countries," the IEC said in a statement.

The IEC and the international relations department would be working together to ensure the process ran smoothly.

"Applications for registration are open with immediate effect and take place during normal office hours of the various missions until Friday, 7 February 2014."

Those unable to register during office hours could do so during two special registration weekends on January 18 and 19 and on January 25 and 26.

Registered voters who would not be in South Africa on election day would also be able to vote, provided they notified the chief electoral officer of their intention to cast their ballots abroad.

These voters could apply for a special vote online, but only once the election date was announced.

"Online applications must be made with 15 days of the proclamation," the IEC said.