Advance voting began on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, for provincial byelections taking place in two ridings within the Greater Toronto Area. The ridings identified for this early voting period are Scarborough Southwest and York‑Simcoe. The commencement of voting was reported at 5:02 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time.
The early‑voting window provides a chance for any eligible voter residing in the two ridings to submit a ballot ahead of the designated election day. By allowing ballots to be cast before the official day, the system aims to accommodate voters who may be unable to attend a polling station on the final day of voting.
Both Scarborough Southwest and York‑Simcoe are situated in the broader Toronto metropolitan region, and they are the only ridings where advance voting is being conducted at this stage. The process follows the standard procedures established for provincial elections, whereby voters present themselves at designated locations to record their choice.
The advance‑voting period is a component of the overall electoral timeline for the byelections, ensuring that the electorate has multiple opportunities to participate. Eligible voters in the two ridings can take advantage of this early window to have their votes counted alongside those cast on election day.
Officials have confirmed that the advance‑voting effort is proceeding as planned for the two GTA ridings, with the expectation that it will contribute to a smooth and inclusive voting experience for all participants.