Candidates and Agents
This page details information useful to candidates and election agents at the Scottish Parliamentary Election.
Nomination period
The nomination period will open on Tuesday 17 March 2026 and close at 4pm on Wednesday 1 April 2026.
What these dates mean
Candidates may only submit nomination papers during the nomination period. Nomination papers cannot be accepted before Tuesday 17 March or after 4pm on Wednesday 1 April 2026.
Pre‑nomination briefing for potential candidates
An in‑person pre‑nomination briefing will be held ahead of the Scottish Parliament election. It is intended for anyone considering standing as a constituency or regional candidate.
What the session will cover
The session will provide guidance on completing and submitting nomination papers, including:
- How to complete constituency nomination papers
- How to complete regional nomination papers
- Key details about the 2026 Scottish Parliament election
Where and when the briefing takes place
The briefing will be held on Monday 23 February 2026 from 2pm to 4pm in the Highland Council Chamber. Contact us at election@highland.gov.uk if you wish to attend.
Post-nomination briefing for candidates and agents
An online post-nomination briefing for candidates and agents will take place on 2 April 2026.
What the session will cover
The session will give guidance on:
- Key details about the 2026 Scottish Parliament election
- An overview of key dates in the election timetable
Where and when the briefing takes place
The briefing will take place on Thursday 2 April 2026 at 11@00 on Microsoft Teams. Contact us at election@highland.gov.uk if you wish to attend.
Nomination guidance
The following videos offer guidance on completing your nomination papers:
- Guidance for constituency candidates
- Guidance for regional individual candidates
- Guidance for party list nominating officers
Download candidates' nomination information and packs
Polling day information
Download guidance for polling agents and tellers
Additional election information
- Election timetable
- Guidance for candidates and agents at Scottish Parliament elections
- Access to Elected Office Fund
- Electoral Management Board of Scotland: Count Directions Press Release
- Electoral Management Board of Scotland: Directions for the 2026 Scottish Parliament Election
- Candidate Security Pack from Police Scotland
We will continue to publish updates as information becomes available.