With elections approaching across England, Scotland, and Wales on 7 May 2026, millions of eligible voters must ensure they're registered by the critical deadline of 20 April. The registration process is straightforward but varies depending on location and personal circumstances.
The deadline to register to vote is 23:59 BST on Monday 20 April.
Registering takes just minutes online through the official government website, requiring your National Insurance number and current address details. If you lack an NI number, alternative documentation like a passport or utility bill can be submitted to your local electoral registration office.
Age requirements differ across regions:
- In England and Northern Ireland, you can register at 16 but must be 18 to vote (though Northern Ireland has no elections this year).
- In Scotland and Wales, registration starts at 14, with voting permitted from age 16 for these elections (18 remains the threshold for Westminster elections).
Certain groups, including most convicted prisoners serving sentences and members of the House of Lords, are legally excluded from voting.
Even if you've voted previously, you may need to re-register if you've moved, changed your nationality, or altered your name. Recent rule changes also require some postal or proxy voters to re-register.
Students and those with multiple residences can register at two addresses, allowing them to vote in different elections—but voting twice in the same election remains illegal.
International considerations:
- UK, Irish, and qualifying Commonwealth citizens can vote in all elections.
- Some European citizens may register for local elections only.
- UK citizens abroad can register as overseas voters with additional documentation.
Alternative voting methods are available for those unable to attend polling stations:
- Postal votes require application by 21 April at 17:00 BST.
- Proxy votes (where someone votes on your behalf) must be arranged by 28 April at 17:00 BST.
Voter ID requirements vary:
- England mandates photo ID for in-person voting, with free Voter Authority Certificates available until 28 April.
- Scotland and Wales have no such requirement.
With the registration deadline fast approaching, voters are urged to confirm their eligibility and complete the process to participate in these significant democratic events.