Marriage Visitor Visa
If you plan to get married or register a civil partnership, or give notice thereof, and do not intend to settle in the UK after.
If you plan to get married or regisiter a civil partnership, or give notice thereof, and do not intend to settle in the UK after, you will need to apply for Marriage Visitor Visa.
The visa is typically valid for 6 months. You can check here to see if you require a visa to visit the UK.
How we can help
We have experience of preparing successful applications on behalf of our clients. We pride ourselves on the presentation of our applications to the Home Office. You can be assured that your application process will be managed in a professional and organised manner.
Marriage Visa FAQs
When to apply for a marriage visitor visa?
People who want to get married or register a civil partnership in the UK, or want to give notice thereof, need to apply for a marriage visa.
What are the eligibility requirements?
You need to meet the following criteria:
- you are over 18 years old
- you have the freedom to enter into marriage or a civil partnership with 6 months of arriving
- your relationship is genuine
- you will be in the UK for 6 months or less
- you will leave the UK at the end of the visa
- you are able to financially support yourself during your visit, or that you have a financial sponsor
- you are able to afford your onwards journey
- you have proof of other activities you intend to do during your visit
What documents do I need to apply?
You will need a passport or travel document that is valid for the duration of your stay and contains a blank page.
To support your application, you supply details of your marriage or civil partnerships and that you’ve already paid for some of the costs. You can also show proof of booking for a venue in the UK.
Do I need a Marriage Visitors Visa as a EU national?
If you have settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, or you have applied for it and have not received your decision yet, you do not need a Marriage Visitors Visa.
Irish citizens do not need a Marriage Visitors Visa.
How soon can apply for a visa?
You can apply 3 months before you intend to travel to the UK.
How much does this visa cost?
It costs £115.
How long does it take to get a decision?
It should take 3 weeks after you have attended your biometric information visa appointment.
Can I bring my family members?
Your partner will need to apply for their own Marriage Visitors visa if they require one. If you intend to bring family members with you, each individual must apply for a Standard Visitor visa.
How long is the visa valid for?
The visa is usually valid for 6 months.
Will I need to submit my biometric information?
Yes. You will need to attend an appointment at your nearest visa centre to have your photograph taken and to submit your fingerprints. This is for your visa.
I have been married before. Does that influence the visa?
You will need to show documentation that proves you are free to marry or enter into a civil partnership again. That can be in the form of a decree absolute or a death certificate.
What can I do on this visa?
You can get married or enter into the civil partnership within 6 months of your arrival – a venue with a license is required for this. You can also pass through the UK in transit.
What are my limitations on this visa?
You cannot:
- get access to public funds or benefits
- bring family members or dependants with you – they will need a Standard Visitors visa to attend your ceremony
- live in the UK for an extended period
- extend or switch your visa from within the UK
- work
- study
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