The Marriage Visitor visa allows the applicant to come to the UK for a marriage ceremony or a civil partnership without a further stay.
For example, if a couple wants to get married in one of Scotland’s ancient castles, this visa is just right for them. But both partners must leave the UK at the end of the visa, or the second partner who has the right to reside in the country – remains.
The registration of a Marriage Visitor visa is a laborious and painstaking process. You need to be very careful about collecting the necessary documents, so we recommend that you seek help from immigration specialists.
Please note that if you intend to marry or enter into a partnership with a British citizen or resident and then remain in the UK, this category will not apply: you will need to apply under the entirely different immigration category of Fiancé Visa (Fiancé(e)s) or Spouse Visa (Spouse).
A. Requirements
To obtain a Marriage Visitor Visa, the applicant must meet the following requirements:
- Demonstrate the intention to marry, enter into a partnership or be engaged to be married in the UK during the period applied for;
- intend to leave the UK at the end of the visa period;
- have sufficient funds to support themselves for the duration of their stay in the UK.
B. What you are permitted to do on a Marriage Visitor visa
The following are allowed under this visa category:
- Marry or enter into a civil partnership in the UK within 6 months of your arrival
- pass through the UK in transit (en route to another country)
C. What you are not allowed to do on a Marriage Visitor visa
The following are not allowed under this visa category:
- receive government benefits and allowances
- invite family members (“dependants”) to the UK
- remain in the UK for lengthy periods of time, through frequent visits
- extend or change visas within the UK
- work or set up their own business in the UK
- study
The Marriage Visitor visa is issued for a period of 6 months, during which the applicant may come to the UK repeatedly.
D. Required Documents
The following documents must be prepared in order to apply for this visa:
- Proof of the applicant’s intention to marry/partnership specifically while in the UK.
- Proof of genuine relationship with future spouse/partner.
- If the applicant is employed, a letter from the employer confirming that he/she is letting the applicant go for a certain period of time. The letter must specify the applicant’s duties, position, salary, and the date the leave ends.
- If the applicant is self-employed, he or she must provide business records, accounting records, and proof of creditworthiness.
- Proof of close ties to his country: documents for ownership of property, family ties.
Program of the trip, confirmation of ticket and hotel reservations. - nk statements for the past 3 – 6 months.
- Proof of additional savings.
E. Right of Appeal
Marriage Visitor applicants have no right of appeal and, if denied, will have to submit a new application. We strongly recommend that you seek professional help in this case.
