UK Marriage Visitor Visa
UK Marriage Visitor Visa: Begin Your Journey Together
The UK Marriage Visitor Visa is required for anyone planning to marry or enter a civil partnership in the UK (except British and Irish nationals), including both visa nationals and non-visa nationals. This visa is mandatory for individuals who intend to have their marriage or civil partnership legally recognised in the UK but do not plan to settle or stay long-term after the ceremony.
Who Needs a UK Marriage Visitor Visa?
You must apply for a UK Marriage Visitor Visa if you:
- Plan to get married or enter a civil partnership in the UK.
- Plan to give notice of marriage at a UK register office.
- Are coming to the UK for a religious or non-religious marriage ceremony.
- Do not intend to live in the UK permanently after the marriage.
This visa applies to both visa nationals and non-visa nationals. Even if you are from a non-visa national country, you must still apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa before travelling to the UK to marry or register a civil partnership. The only exceptions are if you are a British or Irish national or already have a long-term UK visa, for example, a work visa.
What You Can and Cannot Do on a UK Marriage Visitor Visa
You can:
- Give notice of marriage at a UK register office.
- Get married or enter a civil partnership at a UK-licensed venue.
- Attend religious or civil marriage ceremonies.
- Travel around the UK as a tourist during your stay.
You cannot:
- Stay in the UK beyond six months.
- Work, including paid or unpaid jobs.
- Study for more than 30 days.
- Apply for a spouse visa from within the UK.
- Claim public funds or benefits.
- Extend this visa or switch to another visa category.
If you intend to stay in the UK after marriage, you should apply for another suitable visa instead, like a UK Spouse visa, but you will usually be required to apply from your country of nationality or residence.
Financial and Accommodation Requirements for a UK Marriage Visa
To apply, you should prove that:
- You can support yourself financially without working or claiming benefits.
- You have arranged accommodation for your stay in the UK.
- You intend to leave the UK before your visa expires.
If your partner or family member in the UK is sponsoring your visit, they should provide:
- Proof of income (payslips, bank statements, or tax records).
- Proof of residence (rental agreement or mortgage documents).
- A letter of invitation explaining the purpose of your visit.
Required Documents for a UK Marriage Visitor Visa
- Valid passport (must have at least one blank page).
- Visa application confirmation.
- Proof of your relationship with your partner (photographs, travel history, or messages).
- Details of your wedding or civil partnership, such as:
- Confirmation from the UK venue where the marriage will take place.
- Booking confirmation from the register office (if applicable).
- Financial proof (bank statements, sponsorship letter).
- Accommodation details (hotel booking or proof of stay with family).
- Return travel details (flight bookings or itinerary).
Additional documents may be required depending on your nationality and visa history.
How to Apply for a UK Marriage Visitor Visa
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
- Apply via the official UK government website.
- Select the Standard Visitor Visa – Marriage option.
Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee
- Visa application fee: £115
- Priority processing fee (optional): £500 for faster decision
Step 3: Book a Biometric Appointment
- Attend a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your home country.
- Provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Step 4: Submit Supporting Documents
- Upload the required documents online or provide them at your appointment.
Step 5: Await a Decision
- Standard processing time: 3 weeks.
- Priority processing (if selected): 5 working days.
Once approved, you will receive a visa vignette in your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK.
How Long Can You Stay in the UK on a UK Marriage Visit Visa?
- The UK Marriage Visitor Visa is valid for up to six months.
- You must leave the UK before your visa expires.
- Extensions are not permitted, and you cannot switch to another visa while in the UK.
How Immtell Can Help
Applying for a UK Marriage Visitor Visa requires careful preparation, especially when proving your relationship, wedding plans, and financial eligibility. Immtell provides expert support to ensure your visa application is accurate and meets all Home Office requirements.
We assist with:
- Assessing visa eligibility and required documents.
- Ensuring your marriage plans and venue confirmation meet UKVI standards.
- Guidance on financial proof and sponsorship documentation.
- Application review to maximise approval chances.
Make Your UK Marriage Plans a Breeze
Ensure a successful and stress-free UK Marriage Visitor visa process with expert guidance tailored to your wedding plans.
Ensure a successful and stress-free UK Marriage Visitor visa process with expert guidance tailored to your wedding plans.
Further Reading
UK Visa Invitation Letter Sample
How to Write a Letter of Invitation and Sample of Invitation Letter for a Visa to the UK
