A1.47 Marriage Visitor Visa¶
UK Marriage Visitor Visa (September 2025)
Requirements
Who Does Not Need to Apply for This Visa
Those only looking to convert a civil partnership into a marriage (a Standard Visitor visa is applicable instead).
Individuals with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
Those who have applied to the EU Settlement Scheme and not yet received a decision.
Irish citizens.
Who Cannot Apply
Permitted and Prohibited Activities
What You Can Do
Get married or enter into a civil partnership within 6 months of arriving in the UK (the ceremony must take place at a licensed venue).
Pass through the UK in transit (on your way to another country).
What You Cannot Do
Claim public funds (benefits).
Bring family members (dependants) with you – they must apply separately.
Live in the UK for extended periods through frequent visits.
Extend this visa or switch to another type of visa.
Work (except for permitted activities related to your overseas work or business, such as attending meetings).
Study.
Visa Details
Length of Stay
Application Timing
Processing Time
Application Fee
Eligibility Criteria
Are at least 18 years old.
Are free to give notice of marriage, get married or enter into a civil partnership within 6 months of arriving in the UK.
Are in a genuine romantic relationship.
Will stay in the UK for less than 6 months and leave the UK at the end of your visit.
Will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or consecutive visits, or make the UK your main home.
Have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in the UK (or have someone else fund you).
Can pay for your return or onward travel (or have someone else cover this cost).
Hold evidence that any other activities you plan to undertake in the UK comply with visitor rules.
Required Documents
Mandatory Documents
Passport or travel document: It must be valid for the entire duration of your stay and have one blank page for the visa sticker.
Supporting Documents (May Include)
Detailed information about the marriage or civil partnership, and proof that you have paid some related fees (e.g., receipts).
Evidence of your planned marriage in the UK, such as a venue booking confirmation or email correspondence with the venue.
Special Circumstances
If you have been married before: You need to provide documents proving you are currently free to remarry, such as:
A decree absolute (divorce certificate)
A death certificate of your former spouse
Documents not in English or Welsh: Must be accompanied by a certified translation.
How to Apply from Outside the UK
Online Application: Complete the online application form before you travel.
Book an Appointment at a Visa Application Centre: As part of the online application process, you need to book and attend an appointment at a visa application centre.
Provide Biometric Information: Your fingerprints and photograph will be taken during the appointment.
Submit Documents: The visa application centre may retain your passport and documents while processing your application.
Applying with Other Applicants
Your Partner: If both of you need a visa, you must each apply for a separate Marriage Visitor visa and pay the respective fees.
Your Children: If they need a visa, they should apply as Standard Visitors.
Applying on Behalf of Others: You can apply on behalf of your partner or child if they are unable to apply themselves.
Individual Appointments: Each applicant must attend their visa application centre appointment in person.
Post-Application Matters
Amending or Cancelling Your Application: If you need to change your submitted application, contact UK Visas and Immigration. You can request to cancel your application, but a refund will only be issued if the application has not yet started being processed.
Decision Notification: After the Home Office makes a decision, you will receive an email outlining the next steps you need to take