We’ve compiled in one place a list of the key dates in the run up to and after the upcoming Senedd election.
Much of this information is set out in the Senedd Cymru (Representation of the People) Order 2025, known as the Conduct Order, the Government of Wales Act 2006, and Electoral Commission guidance.
27 March 2026
Last day of Senedd business.
30 March 2026
Deadline for publishing of notice of election, to include date of poll and deadline for nomination papers.
8 April 2026
Dissolution of the Senedd.
4pm on 9 April 2026
Deadline for candidate nominations.
4pm on 10 April 2026
Deadline for publishing of statements of persons nominated.
20 April 2026
Deadline for registering to vote.
5pm on 21 April 2026
Deadline for postal vote and postal proxy applications, and for changes to existing postal or proxy votes.
5pm on 28 April 2026
Deadline for applications to vote by proxy.
7 May 2026, 7am to 10pm
Date of poll.
5pm on 7 May 2026 (polling day)
Deadline for applying for a replacement for spoilt or lost postal votes.
5pm on 7 May 2026 (polling day)
Deadline for emergency proxy applications.
28 May 2026
Deadline for first meeting of the Seventh Senedd.
Elected at first meeting of the Seventh Senedd
Nomination of Presiding Officer and Deputy Presiding Officer.
4 June 2026
Deadline for nomination of First Minister.
Article by Adam Cooke and Josh Hayman, Senedd Research, Welsh Parliament.
