Marriage Visitor Visa for the UK
The Marriage Visitor Visa is a UK visa that allows individuals to travel to the UK specifically to get married or register a civil partnership. This visa is valid for up to six months and is intended for those who plan to leave the UK after their wedding or civil partnership ceremony.
This visa is ideal for couples who want to hold their ceremony in the UK but do not intend to settle permanently. Applicants cannot use this visa as a route to stay in the UK long-term; doing so would require applying for a different visa, such as a family visa.
UK Visas can assist throughout the entire application process, including:
- Checking eligibility to ensure you meet all requirements
- Preparing and reviewing documents needed for the application
- Guiding you through the submission process to maximise the chances of approval
It’s important to understand that the Marriage Visitor Visa is strictly for short-term purposes. If your goal is to remain in the UK after marriage, you will need to explore other visa options, and UK Visas can also provide expert guidance for those applications.
Why Choose UK Visas?
UK Visas offers a comprehensive range of visa services for private individuals and their families. Our team of immigration and visa experts takes the time to understand your unique situation and requirements, ensuring that we recommend the most suitable visa pathway to meet your needs.
With our guidance, you can navigate the UK visa process with confidence, knowing that every step is handled professionally and efficiently.
Eligibility Criteria for a UK Marriage Visitor Visa
To qualify for a Marriage Visitor Visa in the UK, applicants must meet several key eligibility requirements. These can be broadly categorised into financial capability, relationship status, and purpose of visit.
Financial Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate that they can support themselves financially during their stay in the UK. This may include:
- Personal savings or income
- Financial support from a third party
The exact amount required depends on the length of stay and the applicant’s personal circumstances. The goal is to ensure that visitors can cover accommodation, living expenses, and travel costs without relying on UK public funds.
Purpose of Visit
The primary purpose of the visit must be to get married or enter into a civil partnership. Applicants:
- Cannot intend to work or study during their stay
- Must not plan to remain in the UK beyond the visa period
Relationship Status
Applicants must be visiting the UK with the intention to marry or register a civil partnership with a partner who is either:
- A UK resident, or
- Settled in the UK
Applicants must also provide evidence that they have met their partner in person and intend to live together permanently after the marriage or civil partnership.
Summary:
Meeting these eligibility criteria is essential to obtain a Marriage Visitor Visa successfully. UK Visas can assist applicants by reviewing documentation, confirming eligibility, and guiding them through the application process to increase the chances of approval.
Application Process
Marriage Visitor Visa
Required Documents:
- Valid passport or travel document
- Proof of intention to marry or register a civil partnership in the UK (e.g., invitation letter)
- Evidence of financial support (bank statements, payslips)
- Proof of intent to leave the UK after the visit (return tickets)
- Evidence of relationship with partner (emails, photos, letters)
Online Application Form:
Complete the online visa application form with personal, travel, and marriage/civil partnership details. Pay the visa fee of £115 (non-refundable).
Appointment and Biometrics:
Attend a visa application centre to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph). Bring your passport and application form. Additional documents may be requested.
Processing Time:
Most applications are processed within 3 weeks, but applying in advance is recommended to account for delays.
UK Visas Assistance:
UK Visas helps applicants prepare documents, complete the application, and ensure all requirements are met for a smooth and successful visa process.
After Arrival in the UK – Marriage Visitor Visa
1. Marriage or Civil Partnership Registration
Couples entering the UK on a Marriage Visitor visa must register their marriage or civil partnership within six months of arrival. This involves:
- Giving notice at a local register office
- Observing the required notice period before the ceremony
It is important to remember that this visa does not allow settlement. Couples planning to stay in the UK after the marriage will need to apply for a different visa.
2. Visa Extension Options
If couples wish to remain in the UK beyond the visa’s validity, they may apply for another visa type, such as:
- Family visa
- Spouse visa
- Other eligible visa categories that allow for settlement
Applications for extensions or new visas should be made before the current visa expires to avoid overstaying and potential legal consequences. Applicants must also meet the eligibility requirements of the new visa category.
3. Legal Obligations
After registration, couples must comply with all UK immigration laws, including:
- Maintaining valid visas or visa extensions
- Following any restrictions or conditions on their stay
- Reporting to the Home Office if required
Non-compliance can lead to serious consequences, including deportation or a re-entry ban.
4. Professional Guidance
UK Visas recommends seeking expert advice to ensure all legal and immigration requirements are met. Professional guidance can help couples:
- Understand the process for extensions or switching visas
- Avoid mistakes that could jeopardize their stay
- Ensure a smooth transition to permanent settlement if desired
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Applicants must show proof of their intention to marry or register a civil partnership in the UK within six months of arrival. They must also demonstrate that they plan to leave the UK after the ceremony and have sufficient funds to support themselves without working or using public funds.
Processing times vary depending on individual circumstances but typically range from 2 to 12 weeks. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
No. Switching from a Marriage Visitor visa to a Spouse visa is not allowed. Applicants must return to their home country and apply for a Spouse visa from there.
The fee for a six-month Marriage Visitor visa is £115. This fee is non-refundable, even if the application is refused.
A Marriage Visitor visa is for individuals who plan to marry or register a civil partnership in the UK and then leave the country. A fiancé(e) visa allows individuals to marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK and remain in the country with their partne
Applicants must provide:
- A valid passport or travel document
- Evidence of intention to marry or register a civil partnership
- Proof of financial means to support themselves
- Evidence of plans to leave the UK after the visit
Additional documents may be requested based on personal circumstances.
