Services
Absentee Voting, Federal Benefits and U.S. Taxes
Voting While Abroad
The Consular Section has information on how to register to vote and obtain absentee ballots for federal and state elections. The absentee voting process permits citizens, who will be away from their local polling places on election day, to vote through the mail or an alternative method.
- Absentee voters should request their ballots at least 60 days before the election due to the nature of the process.
- Voting related information is available on the Federal Voting Assistance Program's website.
- We can place properly packaged, addressed and stamped (with U.S. domestic postage) absentee ballots in the U.S. Government mail system. We do not, however, sell stamps, weigh items or provide receipts.
- We cannot place any other items in the government mail system.
- Given our location, mail sent through the government mail system may take up to four weeks to reach its destination.
Federal Benefits
Recipients of U.S. federal benefits, such as Social Security or Veterans benefits, may be able receive these benefits in Russia. Please contact the American Citizen Services Section for more information.
U.S. Taxes
As a U.S. citizen or resident alien, your worldwide income is generally subject to U.S. income tax. The American Citizen Services Unit has some IRS forms and publications for your use. We cannot, however, offer tax advice. You can also get IRS forms online.