There are two types of candidates in Nova Scotia: those who are affiliated with a registered political party, and independents. If you are planning to run for election as an MLA representing a party, the party must first register with Nova Scotia's Chief Electoral Officer.
Candidates must register with Elections Nova Scotia if they receive a contribution or transfer, or if they have incurred an expense. Form 1-1 must be completed and submitted for approval by the Chief Electoral Officer. The Application for registration must also provide a statement signed by the leader of the registered party that the registered candidate is an endorsed candidate of the registered party. Candidate may register at any time.
Click here for a chart of currently registered candidates.
Once an election is called, to become a formally nominated candidate, you must:
Once you have done all that and the Returning Officer signs the receipt for your deposit on your Nomination Paper, you are considered "officially nominated."
What else does it take to become a candidate? You must
Several resources are available for the Candidates and Official Agents in the Handbooks and Forms section.
Candidates and Official Agents should also be aware of Elections Nova Scoita’s policies and interpretive circulars. The following are of interest to Candidates and their official Agents:
June 2021 Candidate Official Agent Training, Completing the Financial Report
June 2021 Candidate Official Agent Training, Financial Reporting Requirements