Information about this election
The Scottish Parliament Election will take place on Thursday 7 May 2026.
The Scottish Parliament has 129 Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs). If you live in Scotland, you are represented by eight MSPs:
- one MSP for your Highland constituency
- seven MSPs for the wider Highlands and Islands region
You will receive two ballot papers if you are registered to vote.
How voting works
You will vote using:
- a lilac ballot paper to choose your constituency MSP
- a peach ballot paper to choose a party or an independent candidate for the regional seats
For each ballot paper, place a single X in the box next to the candidate or party you want to vote for.
When you can vote
Polling takes place on Thursday 7 May 2026 from 7am to 10pm.
Video: How to vote in the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary Election
Watch "How to vote in the 2026 Scottish Parliamentary Election" on YouTube
Interactive tool
Use this tool to enter your postcode and find out about elections happening in your area.
When results will be counted
The count will begin at 9am on Friday 8 May 2026 at Inverness Leisure Centre.
Results will be declared at this count for:
- the three Highland constituencies
- the Highlands and Islands region