Marriage Visitor Visa: Getting Married in the UK
The Marriage Visitor Visa is for individuals who want to visit the UK to get married or register a civil partnership. This visa allows you to enter the UK specifically for your wedding or civil partnership ceremony and stay for up to 6 months.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from eligibility to application, so you can confidently navigate the process.
In this guide, we’ll cover the essentials, from eligibility to application, so you can confidently navigate the process.
Eligibility Criteria
You can apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa if:
- You are 18 years old or over.
- You intend to visit the UK to get married or register a civil partnership.
- You plan to leave the UK after the ceremony, with no intention to stay or live in the UK.
- You can support yourself financially during your stay without accessing public funds.
- You meet the English language and financial requirements (you need to prove you can cover your costs during the stay).
Key Requirements:
- You must intend to get married or register a civil partnership within the 6-month visa period.
- You must leave the UK at the end of your visa period.
- You cannot work or apply for a Spouse Visa while on this visa.
What You Can and Can’t Do on a Marriage Visitor Visa
What You Can Do:
- Get married or register a civil partnership in the UK.
- Stay in the UK for up to 6 months to celebrate your wedding or civil partnership ceremony.
- What You Can’t Do:
- Work, including paid or unpaid employment.
- Stay in the UK for more than 6 months.
- Switch to another visa, such as a Spouse Visa, from within the UK.
- Access public funds.
How Long Can You Stay on a Marriage Visitor Visa?
The Marriage Visitor Visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months. During this time, you must complete your marriage or civil partnership ceremony and leave the UK by the end of the visa period.
The Endorsement Process: Step-by-Step
The endorsement is a crucial part of the application process. To succeed, you need to demonstrate that you have achieved significant contributions in your field or show great potential for future success.
- Select an Endorsing Body: Depending on your field, choose the relevant UK organization that will assess your skills. Each body has its own set of criteria, so make sure to review the specific guidelines.
- Submit Evidence: Provide documentation that highlights your achievements, such as: Published papers or research (for academics) Awards, media recognition, or notable projects (for artists) Contributions to significant tech projects or startups (for digital experts)
- Decision on Endorsement: The endorsing body will review your application and decide if you meet the criteria. If successful, you’ll receive an endorsement letter, which is essential for your visa application.
- Apply for the Visa: Once you have your endorsement, you can apply for the visa itself through the gov.uk website.
The endorsement process usually takes up to 8 weeks, depending on your field.
Required Documents for the Application
To apply for a Marriage Visitor Visa, you’ll need the following documents:
- Valid passport or travel document.
- Proof of your relationship: Documents showing your intention to get married or register a civil partnership (e.g., proof of your planned ceremony).
- Financial evidence: Bank statements or other proof showing you can support yourself during your stay.
- Travel itinerary: Your travel plans, accommodation details, and proof of return travel arrangements.
- Proof of leaving the UK: Evidence showing you intend to leave after the visa period, such as a return flight booking.
Visa Costs and Application Process
Here’s an overview of the costs involved:
- Visa application fee: £100.
- Application Steps:
- Complete the Online Application: Submit your visa application on the gov.uk website.
- Prepare Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents proving your relationship, financial support, and travel plans.
- Attend a Biometric Appointment: Provide your fingerprints and photograph.
- Wait for a Decision: The visa application typically takes 3 weeks to process.
Ready to Apply?
The Marriage Visitor Visa is the ideal option for couples who want to get married or register a civil partnership in the UK and then return to their home country. It offers a straightforward path to celebrate your special occasion in the UK with your loved ones.
If you need assistance with the application process or have questions about the requirements, our team is ready to help.
If you need assistance with the application process or have questions about the requirements, our team is ready to help.
