Nomination Paper - Project Open Gov

A formal document used to nominate a candidate for election.

Also used as: nomination papers, nomination form, candidate nomination paper, candidate nomination papers

Source / explainer: Read Electoral Commission guidance on nominations

Last reviewed: 21 August 2026

A nomination paper is a formal document used to put forward a person as a candidate in an election. It forms part of the nomination process and must be submitted correctly and on time. For UK parliamentary elections, nomination requirements are an important part of deciding who appears on the ballot paper.

Related terms

CandidateA person standing for election to public office.Election AgentThe person legally responsible for managing a candidate’s election campaign finances and administration.Independent CandidateA candidate standing for election without a registered political party label.Notice of ElectionA formal notice published by the returning officer to start the local election timetable.Registered Political PartyA political party registered to use a party name or description on ballot papers.