Central Election Commission issues voting instructions for Bosnia and Herzegovina diaspora

The Central Election Commission (CIK) of Bosnia and Herzegovina has issued critical instructions for citizens voting by mail in the 2026 General Elections. As voting packages begin arriving at addresses outside the country, officials are warning voters that specific errors could result in their ballots being declared invalid.

A primary warning concerns the use of ink: voters must use black or dark markers only. The use of red ink is strictly prohibited because it interferes with the subsequent scanning process of the ballots.

Additionally, the CIK clarified that candidate lists included in the voting packages do not need to be returned. Voters should only return the specific materials designated for mailing.

Regarding deadlines, the postmark on the envelope from the country of residence must not be later than October 4, 2026, the day of the elections. Furthermore, the shipment must reach the Central Election Commission no later than five days after the election date. Voters are encouraged to mail their materials as early as possible to avoid international postal delays.