Early voting for Canada's federal election opens on Friday

Early voting for Canada's upcoming federal elections is set to open tomorrow, giving voters a chance to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day.

If you plan to vote early, you will need to plan ahead and act quickly. Advance polling days are limited and start over the Easter long weekend.

Here's how you beat the rush and vote before Election Day on April 28.

How to vote early

By now, if you're registered to vote in the federal election, you should have already received your voter information card in the mail. It was sent out by April 11. The card includes personalized details — instructions, your name, accessibility information, and a reminder to bring an acceptable form of identification — that will guide you through the voting process.

It should also have the address of your assigned polling station for Election Day on Monday, April 28. However, if you prefer to vote early, the card will also include the address of the polling station that will be open for advance voting on specified days.

According to Elections.ca, registered Canadians can vote early at their assigned polling station on the following days:

• Friday, April 18
• Saturday, April 19
• Sunday, April 20
• Monday, April 21

When's the best time to vote?

Polling stations for advanced voting during federal elections will be open on those specific days from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. But if you're hoping to avoid long lines, there are ways to do so.

Elections Canada says the best times to avoid lineups are early morning and any time after 4 p.m. The busiest times are from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

"Peak voting times vary throughout the day. All electors that are still in line at the end of voting hours will be allowed to vote regardless of the length of the line," reads the site.

What if you didn't get a voter information card?

If you're a first-time voter, make sure to register online through the Online Voter Registration Service or register in person at your local Elections Canada office by April 22. Check out our guide for first-time voters.

Not sure if you're registered to vote?

"Most Canadians who are eligible to vote are already registered in the National Register of Electors," reads the website. "If you're registered, you should get a voter information card in the mail that tells you where and when you can vote. To check if you're registered or to register, use the Online Voter Registration Service or call us at 1-800-463-6868."