Scottish Parliament Election 2026
A Scottish Parliament Election will take place on Thursday, 7th May 2026 to elect Members of Scottish Parliament (MSPs) to the Scottish Parliament.
View the Notice of Election (PDF 113KB).
Key dates
Deadlines for this election:
- Register to vote: 11:59pm on 20th April 2026
- Apply for a postal vote: 5pm on 21st April 2026
- Apply for a proxy vote: 5pm on 28th April 2026
Poll cards and postal votes:
- First issue of poll cards and letters handed to Royal Mail: between 17th and 18th March 2026
- First issue of postal votes handed to Royal Mail: between 15th and 17th April 2026
Voting
Find out about:
- How to vote
- Where to vote
- Voting and elections guidance from Electoral Commission
Disabled voters
We will have provisions to assist blind, partially sighted and other disabled voters at polling stations.
View:
- Guidance for voters with learning disabilities
- Guidance for Returning Officers on assistance with voting for disabled voters
Voter information animation
You can watch animation to get general information about voting in this election. Created by the Electoral Commision.
Information for Candidates and agents
A briefing meeting for prospective candidates and election agents took place on Friday, 13th March 2026.
View:
- Briefing notes for candidates and agents (PDF 294KB)
- Nomination pack to stand as a candidate in the Scottish Parliament Election