Last Updated on 09/02/2026
Becoming a councillor in the City (known as a Common Councillor) is both a rewarding and privileged form of public service. It enables people to play a valuable part in the running of the Square Mile, contribute to civic life generally and make a difference to the quality of people’s lives.
Each City ward elects several Common Councillors, who serve fixed terms, although by‑elections may take place at any time to fill vacancies. Standing for election as a Common Councillor is open to many people, but candidates must meet all of the following requirements at both the date of nomination and the date of election. Unlike councillors elsewhere, the position in the City is a purely voluntary role and it is not remunerated, although there is some help available to cover loss of earnings.
Core Qualifications
A candidate must be:
- A Freeman of the City of London
- At least 18 years old
- A British citizen, a Commonwealth citizen, a citizen of the Republic of Ireland, or a citizen of another EU member state
Additional Eligibility (must meet at least one)
A candidate must also:
- Be registered on the City of London Ward Lists, or
- Own freehold or leasehold land in the City
- (Where the land is held on a joint tenancy, no more than four joint tenants may qualify), or
- Have resided in the City for the 12 months preceding nomination and intend to remain resident until election day
Disqualifications
A person cannot stand if they are disqualified for any legal reason, such as:
- Bankruptcy restrictions
- A conviction for fraud
- A criminal conviction resulting in a prison sentence
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