when is new pope elected

A new pope is elected through a conclave, a secret meeting of the cardinals held in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel. The conclave starts about 15 to 20 days after the previous pope's death or resignation. The most recent conclave began on May 7, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025. About 135 cardinals under the age of 80 participate in the voting process. The election involves multiple rounds of secret ballot voting, with up to four ballots held per day (two in the morning and two in the afternoon). A two- thirds majority is required to elect the new pope. If no candidate receives this majority after three days, the cardinals may take a day of prayer and discussion before continuing. The voting continues until one cardinal receives the necessary two-thirds majority. Once a new pope is elected, white smoke is emitted from the Sistine Chapel chimney to signal the decision to the outside world. The new pope is then announced from the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica. Historically, the most recent conclaves have lasted about two days, but the duration can vary. The latest conclave that started on May 7, 2025, elected Cardinal Robert Prevost as Pope Leo XIV on May 8, 2025.