Information for Candidates and Agents

The Electoral Office for Northern Ireland provides the information in the links below for anyone who wants to stand as a candidate in the Local Elections with the relevant forms that are required to be completed.

Local Council Elections 2023 - Guide for Candidates and Agents
Nomination FAQ's
Electoral Commission guidance on candidate spending
Royal Mail Local Elections 2023 Mailing Information

Candidate Forms

Please note that the 3 April 2023 Electoral Register must be used to complete the subscriber details on the Nomination Paper. You should complete Form 4 in the Candidate Forms below and forward this to the Local Council Office from 3 April to obtain a copy of the register.

Candidate Forms (PDF)
Candidate Forms (Word)

Seminars for Candidates and Agents

The Electoral Commission in partnership with the Electoral Office for Northern Ireland and Royal Mail will be running information seminars for potential candidates and agents ahead of the 2023 local council elections.

These seminars will offer guidance and support on: 

• standing as a candidate
• the rules on spending and donations
• candidate freepost entitlement

Seminar dates:

• Wednesday 29 March (Omagh)
• Thursday 30 March (Virtual)

All seminars will take place in the evening

Places are limited. To reserve a place please email infonorthernireland@electoralcommission.org.uk indicating which seminar you’d like to attend.