Egyptian expats around the world continue to vote on the Egyptian constitution for the second day of the referendum -- scheduled for overseas voting from 8 to January.

The overseas vote began in Egyptian embassies around the world on Wednesday, unlike previous years when Egyptian expats could cast their vote via email.

In Milano, Italy, a fairly significant turnout of voters was seen at the embassy on the first day, state news agency MENA reported.

Egyptian Ambassador to Italy Amr Helmy told MENA that on the second day another remarkable number of expats has been flocking to the embassy to vote since morning.

Helmy also said Italian watchful security forces have been deployed outside the embassy to prevent any riots that might negatively affect the referendum.

In Saudi Arabia, expats have also been voting on the referendum, with a Thursday turnout exceeding Wednesday's, according to the embassy.

MENA also reported that Egyptian expats in the UK have been voting since the first day, and that an increase in turnout was expected for Saturday as larger numbers will be able to head to the embassy in the weekend.

Dozens of expats in the UK have also reportedly organised a stand in front of the Egyptian embassy on Wednesday to express their support of the newly drafted constitution.

The number of Egyptian expats eligible to vote is 681,346 in 161 countries around the world; 45 percent of them are located in Saudi Arabia, state news agency MENA reported .

Egyptian expats won the right to cast votes in elections at Egyptian embassies and consulates abroad following the 25 January revolution.

Head of the electoral commission Nabil Salib has reiterated the ban on campaigning -- including the use of banners or loudspeakers -- within 200 metres of polling stations, whether in Egypt or abroad.

Expats who are not already registered to vote abroad will not be able to do so in the constitutional referendum. 

Egyptian voters residing in Egypt will head to the polls for the recently-amended 2012 constitution on 14-15 January.