The guidance on this page is being updated into our web-based format. The updated guidance will include the legislative amendments required for the next set of scheduled polls in 2026. Plans for the publication of the updated guidance will be communicated via the EA Bulletin. 

Please contact our Electoral Commission Wales team via [email protected] if you require any assistance. 

Guidance and resources for candidates and their agents at Senedd elections

An overview document gives instructions on how to use this guidance and who does what at these elections:

Candidate guide overview - Senedd elections (PDF)

 

Part 1

Can you stand for election?

This part covers:

  • Qualifications required to stand for election
  • Disqualifications
Candidate guide - Senedd elections (part 1/6) (PDF)

Part 2a

Standing at the constituency election

This part covers:

  • Completing and submitting nomination papers
  • Being nominated in more than one area
  • What happens after the close of nominations?
  • Appointing your election agent and other agents
Candidate guide - Senedd elections (part 2a/6) (PDF)

Part 2b

Standing at the regional election

This part covers:

  • Completing and submitting nomination papers
  • Being nominated in more than one area
  • What happens after the close of nominations?
  • Appointing your election agent and other agents
Candidate guide - Senedd election (part 2b/6) (PDF)

Part 4

The campaign

This part covers:

  • Campaigning dos and don'ts
  • Using the electoral register and absent voters' lists
  • Using schools and rooms for public meetings
  • Imprints on campaign publicity material
  • Polling day dos and don'ts
  • Reporting allegations of electoral malpractice
Candidate guide - Senedd election (part 4/6) (PDF)

Part 5

Your right to attend key electoral events

This part covers:

  • Attending the opening of postal votes and what to expect
  • Attending polling stations and what to expect
  • Attending the count and what to expect
Candidate guide - Senedd election (part 5/6) (PDF)
Part 6

After the declaration of results

This part covers:

  • Making the declaration of acceptance of office
  • Access to election paperwork
  • Submitting your spending returns and declarations
  • Questioning the result through an election petition
Candidate guide - Senedd election (part 6/6) (PDF)