Thinking about getting married in the UK? That’s wonderful — the UK has everything from charming countryside venues to iconic city halls. But before you can walk down the aisle, there’s something important to sort out first: your visa.
If you’re from outside the UK and plan to marry there, you’ll likely need one of two visa types: the Marriage Visitor Visa or the Fiancée Visa. Choosing the right one depends on your future plans — and knowing when and how to apply for marriage visa is the first step in making your big day a reality.
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you figure out what to apply for — and how.
Step 1: Know Your Intentions
Ask yourself this question:
Do you want to stay in the UK after getting married, or will you return to your home country?
- If you’ll leave the UK after the wedding, apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa.
- If you plan to live in the UK after the wedding, go for a Fiancée Visa.
Option 1: Marriage Visitor Visa
This is ideal for couples who just want to hold a legal wedding in the UK and then head home.
Main Points:
- Valid for: Up to 6 months
- Purpose: To get married or register a civil partnership in the UK
- After the wedding: You must leave the UK
- You cannot: Work, extend your stay, or live permanently in the UK
- Evidence needed: Proof of your relationship, travel plans, wedding booking, and finances
Example Scenario:
Sarah (from Canada) and James (a British citizen) want to get married in London, then return to Canada. Sarah applies for a Marriage Visitor Visa, arrives in the UK, they get married, and she returns after the ceremony.
Option 2: Fiancée Visa (Also called “Prospective Marriage Visa”)
This is for people who want to move to the UK to marry their British or settled partner and stay after marriage.
Main Points:
- Valid for: 6 months
- Must marry within: The 6-month window
- You can then: Apply for a Spouse Visa from inside the UK after marriage
- Eventually leads to: Permanent residency and British citizenship
- Restrictions: You cannot work until you switch to a Spouse Visa
- Financial requirement: Your partner must earn at least £18,600 per year (more if you have children)
- Evidence needed: Relationship proof, wedding plans, finances, and accommodation details
Example Scenario:
Ahmed (from Egypt) is engaged to Chloe (a UK citizen). They want to marry and live together in the UK. Ahmed applies for a Fiancée Visa. After the wedding in Manchester, he applies for a Spouse Visa and starts building a life in the UK.
Step 2: Collect Your Documents
Regardless of the visa type, you’ll need:
- Valid passport
- Proof of your relationship (messages, photos, call logs, etc.)
- Wedding plans (confirmation from the venue or registry office)
- Evidence of financial support (bank statements, pay slips)
- Accommodation details in the UK
- Proof that you plan to leave (for Marriage Visitor) or stay (for Fiancée)
Step 3: Apply Online
Visit the official UK visa and immigration site to begin your application.
You’ll:
- Fill out the application form
- Pay the visa fee
- Book a biometrics appointment at a local visa application centre
- Submit supporting documents online or at your appointment
Step 4: Wait for a Decision
- Marriage Visitor Visa: Usually processed in 3–4 weeks
- Fiancée Visa: May take up to 12 weeks or longer
You can pay extra for priority processing in some countries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Booking a wedding before your visa is approved
- Not providing enough proof of your relationship
- Choosing the wrong visa type
- Forgetting to meet the income requirement (for the Fiancée Visa)
- Not translating non-English documents
Final Thoughts
Getting married in the UK is exciting, but visa planning is a must. Choosing the right visa early on saves time, stress, and money.
If you’re only visiting to get married, the Marriage Visitor Visa is quick and straightforward. But if your goal is to settle down with your partner in the UK, the Fiancée Visa puts you on the right track to long-term residency.
